Tips for Tummy Time: When to Start and How to Start

Tummy time is one of the fun and exciting parts of your day when you have a newborn baby at home. This important daily practice of placing your little baby on their stomach can help with neck strength and motor development. Some parents might find tummy time a bit intimidating, especially since it’s recommended to start it the day you bring your baby home from the hospital. We’re here to tell you that it doesn’t have to be scary or stressful! Here are some tips to get started on tummy time. Don’t worry, you’ll be a pro before you know it! 🤩

1️⃣ Be patient.

It can be common for babies to get upset when placed on their stomach at first. Because everything is so new for tiny babies, any little change could cause them to get fussy. So, just be patient. Expect a little discomfort and start with a small goal of only a few minutes at a time. Ideally, your kiddo should get 15 - 20 minutes total of tummy time per day, but this can be broken up into multiple shorter sessions. 

2️⃣ Consistency is key.

Although it may be another one of those daunting tasks of parenthood, and we all know you’re exhausted — try to be consistent! The more often you do tummy time, the stronger your baby will get the hang of it and the better they will tolerate it. Trust me, it does get easier. 

3️⃣ Designate the perfect tummy time spot. 

Having a designated area for tummy time is a great way to make things easier for you and help make it more enjoyable for your baby. The Pop N’ Go self-inflating mattress and bamboo mattress cover are the perfect tummy time duo (okay, we may be just a little biased 😏). 

• The self-inflating mattress is firm and safe for your newborn. It's super lightweight and easy to set up. 
• Our bamboo mattress cover is made with soft, natural, non-toxic material, and it’s machine washable —whether we’re talking spit up or blowouts, easy clean up is a necessity in the newborn days.. 🤭

4️⃣ Make it fun! 

Help your little babe have fun during tummy time by incorporating their favorite rattle or toy. You can even place a small mirror in front of your baby or incorporate some string lights to increase their sensory development.  

Tummy time can be a little stressful at times, but at the end of the day it just marks another exciting milestone to celebrate with your baby. Savor this time, because they’ll be rolling over and crawling before you know it! 🥺❤️