Tummy Time: Building Strength in Your Baby's First Year

Why Tummy Time Matters

From the very first weeks of life, tummy time is one of the most valuable activities you can offer your baby. Spending short periods awake on their stomach strengthens the muscles of the neck, shoulders, and core — the same muscles needed for rolling, sitting, crawling, and eventually walking.

Paediatric guidelines recommend starting tummy time from birth, even just two to three minutes, two or three times a day. As your baby grows stronger, gradually increase the sessions until they total around 30 minutes spread across the day.

Getting Started: Practical Tips

Choose the Right Moment

Tummy time is most effective when your baby is awake and alert — not tired or just after a feed. Always place them on a firm, flat, clean surface and never leave them unsupervised.

How to Keep Your Baby Engaged

1. Get down to their eye level and smile — your face is the best toy in the world
2. Place a colourful rattle or soft mirror just within reach
3. Lay them tummy-down on your chest for skin-to-skin tummy time
4. Use a small rolled towel under their chest as gentle support in the early weeks

Developmental Milestones to Celebrate

• 1–2 months: Briefly lifts and turns head from side to side
• 3–4 months: Holds head steady at 45°, begins propping on forearms
• 5–6 months: Pushes up on extended arms and may begin to roll

"Every minute of tummy time is an investment in your baby's physical independence. Start small, stay consistent, and celebrate every tiny lift of that beautiful head."

Find Tummy Time Props on Loopelo

You don't need to buy an expensive baby gym. Families on Loopelo share high-quality play mats, tummy time support pillows, and baby mirrors — everything you need to make each session more engaging. Borrowing these items means your baby gets stimulating equipment without the clutter or the cost. Search listings near you and discover what local families are sharing today.