Can Tummy Time Be Skipped?

 

Some babies love being on their tummies, and others do not. If your child fusses, panics, or spits up, you may wonder, “Can tummy time be skipped?” Unless your child’s doctor instructed you otherwise, you should do tummy time with your baby.

Why is tummy time important?

With all the emphasis on having babies sleep on their backs, many moms fear rolling their children onto their bellies. Yes, your child should sleep on their back. But when awake, some time on the tummy is recommended. The tummy time position is vital in helping your baby gain head control which is essential for the development of all other gross motor milestones. 

Your baby’s head weighs about one-fourth of its total body weight. For the average seven-pound baby, that means their head weighs just under two pounds. While that may seem light, it is equivalent to a one-hundred-thirty-pound adult having a thirty-three-pound head! Since the average adult’s head weighs only eleven pounds, your baby’s head weighs a hefty percentage of its overall weight.

Gaining control of that heavy head is hard yet a vital first step in your child’s gross motor development. The natural order of motor development begins with lifting the head off a surface when face down, aka the tummy time position. The muscles in the neck and upper back are the ones that raise the head and should be strengthened first. So, if your baby is never face down on your chest or a flat surface, when will they have a chance to practice and gain strength? Placing them on their back during awake time, especially cradled in a carrier, eliminates those necessary strengthening opportunities.

Tummy time activities, even when modified, offer the best chance for your baby to gain head control, and head control is essential. Share on X

How much crying is too much?

While some infants fuss and then settle down, other children panic or become inconsolable. If the latter is your child, modify the position (see below) instead of skipping it altogether. Tummy time should be pleasant.

How can I modify tummy time?

Slowly roll your baby from their back to the belly and elevate their head by laying them over a rolled-up towel or boppy (nursing) pillow or on your chest as you recline.  For babies who spit up or panic, a slightly elevated position often works. You can also do shorter sessions (a minute or less) more frequently, such as after diaper changes. All work equally well. Experiment and see what works best.

If you want more help, download my 10 Tips for Happy Time course for moms today! 

What happens if we skip tummy time?

While some babies have no developmental delays, there is no way to know how your baby will do. Experts recommend doing tummy time because the research shows those babies who skip it have an increased chance of developing:

• a flattened head (aka positional plagiocephaly)
• tight, weak neck muscles (aka positional torticollis)
• delays in other gross motor skills, such as rolling and sitting up

Tummy time should be pleasant, even if it is briefer than you’d prefer. Do your best to incorporate some practice throughout the day. Modify it as needed, but do not skip this essential stepping stone in your child’s development.

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(Photo: Adobe Stock)

Disclaimer: All information presented is general education and is not intended as specific prescriptions for your child. If you have concerns about any aspect of your baby’s development, talk with your doctor. If your child is receiving any intervention or therapy, this information is not intended to be used without their knowledge.