Tummy time is more than just a buzzword in the world of parenting—it's a crucial part of your baby's development. This simple activity plays a vital role in building the muscles needed for your little one to lift their head, roll over, sit up, and eventually crawl. But tummy time doesn't have to be just another item on your to-do list; with the right activities, it can be a fun and interactive experience for both you and your baby. In this blog post, we’ll explore some engaging tummy time activities that will help your baby grow stronger while having a blast!
Why Is Tummy Time Important?
Tummy time helps develop your baby’s neck, shoulder, and arm muscles, which are essential for motor skills like rolling over and crawling. It also promotes a healthy head shape by reducing the risk of flat spots, and it can even boost sensory and cognitive development by allowing your baby to explore their environment from a new perspective.
Pro Tip: Start tummy time as soon as your baby comes home from the hospital. A few minutes a day is all you need to begin with, gradually increasing the duration as your baby grows stronger.
1. Mirror, Mirror on the Floor
Babies are naturally drawn to faces, and what better face to look at than their own? Place a baby-safe mirror in front of your little one during tummy time. As they catch a glimpse of their reflection, they’ll be motivated to lift their head and reach out. Not only does this activity help strengthen neck and shoulder muscles, but it also fosters self-recognition and visual development.
How to Play:
Lay your baby on a soft blanket on the floor.
Position a baby-safe mirror within their line of sight.
Encourage them to look at their reflection by smiling and talking to them.
2. Tummy Time with Illustrated graphics
Newborns are able to focus on high-contrast shapes and patterns, which can help to develop baby’s vision and stimulate their curiosity. Our toys can help encourage baby to exercise their hand and leg muscles to reach and crawl, develop fine motor skills, and overall coordination development in a Montessori style learning environment. Made from baby safe materials, 100% organic cotton twill, and non-leaching foam solid fill.
How to Play:
Place your baby on their tummy on a blanket.
Arrange the Illustrated graphics just out of reach to encourage them to stretch and move towards them.
Rotate the cards to keep your baby engaged.
What You’ll Need: Try our wee Gallery Art Card
3. Tummy Time Together
Your baby loves being close to you, so why not join them on the floor for tummy time? Lie down face-to-face with your little one and talk, sing, or make funny faces. This not only makes tummy time more enjoyable for your baby but also strengthens your bond.
How to Play:
Lie down on the floor, facing your baby at eye level.
Encourage your baby to lift their head by calling their name, smiling, and making silly sounds.
You can also place your baby on your chest while you recline, letting them practice lifting their head to look at you.
What You’ll Need: Just you and your baby!
4. Sensory Blanket Adventure
A sensory blanket, filled with different textures, sounds, and colors, can transform tummy time into a multisensory adventure. As your baby explores the blanket, they’ll be motivated to lift their head and push up on their arms to investigate all the interesting elements.
How to Play:
Lay a sensory blanket on the floor and place your baby on their tummy in the center.
Encourage them to explore the various textures, crinkly sounds, and bright colors by gently guiding their hands and feet to different sections of the blanket.
Narrate the experience by describing the colors, shapes, and textures they’re feeling.
What You’ll Need: A sensory blanket or DIY sensory mat with various materials like soft fabric, crinkly paper, and textured surfaces.
Conclusion:
Tummy time is an essential part of your baby’s development, and with a little creativity, it can be an enjoyable experience for both of you. By incorporating these fun activities, you’ll help your baby build strength, develop important motor skills, and enjoy every moment of tummy time. Remember, every minute spent on their tummy is a step toward a stronger, healthier future!
So grab those toys, books, and mirrors, and make tummy time the highlight of your baby’s day. Happy playing!
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