Why Tummy Time Matters—Even in the First Weeks

Why Tummy Time Matters—Even in the First Weeks

- By Monica Bykov, RN, IBCLC, NCS - 

I can say without a doubt: tummy time is one of the most underrated (and underutilized) parts of early development.

I often hear parents say, “But my baby hates tummy time,” or “Do we really need to start that early?” And I get it—it’s not always fun, and it doesn’t come naturally to all babies. But here’s the truth: the earlier and more consistently we include tummy time in daily routines, the more we support healthy motor development, head control, and even prevent flat spots on the back of the head.

So what exactly is tummy time?

Tummy time means placing your baby on their stomach while they’re awake and supervised. You can start as early as the first week home from the hospital—yes, even before the umbilical stump falls off. At first, it may just be a minute or two on your chest. That counts.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends starting tummy time right away and working up to about 15–30 minutes per day by the time baby is 7 weeks old.¹

Why it’s so important:

1. Helps develop neck and shoulder strength
When babies lift their heads and turn side to side, they’re building the muscles needed for rolling, crawling, and eventually walking. It’s not just about milestones—it’s about body awareness, coordination, and muscle balance.

2. Prevents flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly)
With babies spending more time on their backs (especially since we’ve rightly prioritized safe sleep practices), flat spots on the back of the head have become more common. Tummy time helps relieve pressure and encourages a rounder head shape.²

3. Promotes visual development
From their tummy, babies get a new perspective on the world. They start tracking movement, focusing on objects in the midline, and developing depth perception—all foundational skills for reading and learning later on.

4. Encourages early motor skills
Tummy time supports the whole chain of physical development—pushing up, reaching, rolling, crawling. I like to say tummy time is the baby’s gym. The more they use their “equipment,” the more confident and coordinated they become.

But what if my baby hates it?

Almost every parent I work with says this at some point. And here’s my answer: babies don’t always love what’s hard, especially at first. But with patience and a few tricks, it gets better.

Here’s what helps:

  • Start with baby on your chest or tummy while you recline.

  • Lay baby across your lap with a rolled towel under the chest.

  • Use a mirror or black-and-white cards to keep things interesting.

  • Get on the floor and talk or sing to them face-to-face.

  • Keep sessions short but frequent. Two minutes here, five minutes there—it adds up.

When to be concerned

If your baby:

  • Seems stiff or arches constantly during tummy time

  • Can’t lift or turn their head at all by 2 months

  • Always looks to one side or has a noticeable flat spot

… it’s a good idea to bring it up with your pediatrician. Sometimes babies need a little extra support, and early intervention can make a big difference.

Final thoughts from me:

Tummy time isn’t about checking a box. It’s about giving your baby the foundation to move, grow, and explore confidently. Keep it positive, keep it gentle, and remember—this is as much about connection as it is about coordination.

Even when it feels hard, you’re doing something so good for your little one.

References:

  1. American Academy of Pediatrics. (2020). Tummy Time: How to Help Your Baby Get Comfortable on Their Tummy. https://www.healthychildren.org

  2. National Institutes of Health. (2021). Plagiocephaly and Torticollis in Infants. https://www.ninds.nih.gov