We are often told how important it is to give our babies tummy time each day - but most times our attempts are met with protests!

So, why is tummy time so important and what can we do to make it an enjoyable time for our babies?

Why is tummy time important?

Tummy time will help develop your baby's neck, shoulder, arm and back muscles. It will help develop their movement and balance skills.

Tummy time will also help reduce the chance of your baby developing a flat spot on the back of their head. For more information read our article on Flat Head Syndrome.

It also gives your baby the chance to view the world from a different angle - which helps their brain develop.

Because of Sids Safe Sleeping Guidelines the incidence of sudden infant deaths has dropped remarkably and it is extremely important that babies sleep on their backs.

It is also important that parents not be scared to put babies on their tummy when they are awake.

When can I start tummy time?

Start tummy time when your baby is a newborn, even if it is for just a minute or two each playtime.

Babies instinctively want to lift their heads when they are on their tummies and may get tired and frustrated easily if they are unable to - especially in the first few weeks.

Instead, you might want to try different tummy time positions while your baby is still developing the strength to lift their head.

• Carry your baby face down with your arm under their belly.
• Carry your baby over your shoulder
• Rest your baby across your lap
• Lie down and rest your baby on your belly so they can look up at your face.

These positions will make your baby feel secure while helping build their neck muscles ready for the next stage of tummy time.

How can I make tummy time easier?

Lying face down on the floor isn't fun for anybody but there are ways to make tummy time a little easier - and more enjoyable - for your baby.

• Time it right. Make sure your baby is happy before trying tummy time. If bub is tired, hungry or full of milk they are probably not going to enjoy being on their tummy.
• Put bub on a comfortable firm mattress or on a bunny rug/playmat on the floor.
• Try putting a rolled-up nappy under their armpit and chest for more support
• Prop your baby up on their elbows to make it easier to lift their head.
• Make sure there is something interesting for them to look at. Put a toy in front of them and get down to their level to sing and talk to your baby.

When will my baby enjoy tummy time?

It might not seem like it now but soon your little one will prefer to be on their tummy - rolling over at every opportunity! Especially if you give them plenty of  practice.

• 2-3 Months: Your baby should be getting more comfortable with tummy time, especially if they have been practising every day. At this age they should be able to stay on their tummy for 10-15 minutes and can lift their head and look around.
• 5 Months: At this age your baby should start to prop up on straight arms and pivot while on their belly
• 6 months: By this age, your baby might start to transfer weight to one arm and reach out with the opposite hand. Soon they might prefer to be on their belly as they can play with their toys and begin to move around.