Image credit: ICanTeachMyChild
Your baby needs time on her tummy to develop strong neck muscles which is essential for baby’s physical milestones like sitting, crawling and walking. Which is why it is our duty as a parent to do all we can to encourage this early!
Sad to say, not all babies like tummy time. The minute you put them down on the mat, the screaming begins – we know what you mean! When this happens, it’s time to get creative with your methods.
Here are 4 tips for when your baby hates tummy time. Hope these suggestions will make the time much more enjoyable for baby (and you)!
1. Tummy-to-tummy time
Place a pillow underneath your neck and lay flat on your back. Put baby on top of your tummy, making sure you have both hands free to catch her in case she wobbles to either side. Talk to her, sing, make funny faces and noises.
2. Superman position on the knee
Sit on a chair and place baby over your lap. Be sure that her head is supported and not dangling over the edge of your knee. Slowly and gently rock your knees from side-to-side. Sing and talk to your baby while you’re at it!
3. Up-right hold
This one is a simple and common method of holding your baby that you might not even realise you’re training baby’s neck! Holding your baby up-right, overlooking your shoulder allows baby to practice holding her head up. Just be sure to have one hand supporting the back of her head.
4. Mirror mirror on the floor
A mirror is a wonderful tummy time tool. Place a baby-safe mirror 10cm in front of your baby and encourage her to hold her head up and look into the mirror. Once she catches a glimpse of her reflection, she’ll be distracted and might even break into a smile!
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