Parents often worry about their babies’ development when they are not crying or fussing, but one way to help them relax and have fun is by playing with their tummies. Tummy time can help develop a baby’s motor skills, cognitive abilities, and social skills. In addition, playing with your baby’s tummy helps him or her learn how to self-soothe and calm down. The best way to get your baby comfortable with tummy time is to start practicing early. Once your baby can sit up on his or her own, you can start exploring the various ways that babies play with their bellies.
The science of tummy time: Why is it so beneficial for babies and toddlers?
Tummy time is one of the most popular infant activities, and for a good reason. Research consistently shows that regular tummy time helps babies develop better motor skills, communication skills, and socialization skills. For example, a study published in the journal Early Childhood Research Quarterly found that children who spent more than 30 minutes a day on their tummies scored higher on measures of cognitive development than those who spent less time on their bellies. The benefits don’t stop there — according to another study from the University of Montreal, infants who engage in lots of tummy time tend to have lower rates of chronic health problems like obesity and asthma later in life.
So why is tummy time so beneficial? Well, it seems that babies learn best when they are actively engaged with their environment. Staying active while the baby is sleeping can also help to build a stronger bond between parent and child. Many parents report that their babies who are more active during naps tend to stay asleep longer at night.
The best ways to do tummy time for babies
The best way to do tummy time for babies is to start with a position where you can be back-to-back with your baby. This makes it easier to support the baby in case they get tired or stiff and fall asleep. To ensure the baby is comfortable, it is important to keep the belly area warm and well supported. This can be achieved by using a thick blanket or a towel. Some parents also use a little pillow for their baby’s tummy.
In conclusion, tummy time is an excellent way to promote physical and emotional well-being in your child. It gives them control, builds their motor skills, and helps them develop healthy habits. It’s also a great way to connect with your child and help them learn how to relax. So don’t hesitate to start tummy time today!