OT Tip Tuesday

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This week's OT Tip is how to incorporate "tummy time" into your child's routine. Tummy time, or putting your child or baby on their stomach is a crucial part to their proper development of neck and trunk muscles for success in the school environment. 

Ever since the "Back To Sleep" program, babies have received less and less tummy time. Back to sleep has helped in diminish SIDS deaths in babies, so I don't want to say that it has been a bad thing. However, making sure they get enough tummy time is important. 

Some benefits of tummy time include: 

• Promotes muscle development in the neck
and shoulders
• Helps prevent tight neck muscles and the development of flat areas on the back of the baby’s head
• Helps build the muscles your baby needs to roll, sit and crawl

From Tummy Time Tools

Here are some ideas to incorporate tummy time in your babies schedule.

* Sit your baby on your lap, facing you. Provide support as needed, and encourage the baby to hold his head up and centered. Turn his head equally to both sides. Again, a good position for feeding.

*Lie on the floor with your baby, face-to-face. Help your baby push up on his elbows to lift his head to look at you.

*Provide support under the chest to make lifting the head in the middle easier.

*Place toys in front of your baby while he is lying on his belly to encourage reaching and playing with both hands. Your baby may begin propping up on both arms and moving around the floor on his belly. Your baby may also begin to crawl from this position.

*While watching TV or visiting with friends, place your baby on his tummy over your lap. Change the baby’s position to encourage looking to both sides.

From, Tummy Time Tools.

When should I start tummy time? 

At 3-4 months is a great time to start tummy time with your baby. At this age babies have better head control and are able to hold their heads up better when you place them on your tummy. Five to ten minutes at a time 2-3 times a day is a great way to start! 

For more ideas for tummy time activities and fun play time check out "Tummy Time Tools." by Colleen Coulter-O’Berry, P.T., Dulcey Lima, C.O., O.T.R./L. It is a pdf file that you can download and print out.

Don't forget your toddlers and preschoolers can benefit from tummy time. You can have them lay down on their tummy to put puzzles together, crafts, and fine motor activities. 

Also check out this tummy time article on parents.com.

I hope you find this information useful! Enjoy the precious time with your little ones, they grow up so fast! :) 

Disclaimer: I am a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. The advise in these tips is not a replacement for medical advise from a physician or your pediatrician. Please consult their advice if you suspect any medical or developmental issues with your child.