When the back to sleep campaign was launched in 1991 it quickly reduced the sudden infant death statistics. SIDS rates have reduced by 81%*

But it was originally a campaign of two parts. It was back to sleep and tummy to play

Why is tummy-time important?

Babies tend to spend a lot of time on their backs they go from the car seat in the bassinet to the play mat, may be a “babygym” but still they're on their back.

Tummy time helps to prevent flat head syndrome builds strengthens muscles in the neck back and tummy as well as shoulder stability for head control and motor skills.

Tummy time aids digestion reducing symptoms of colic reflux and wind.

How to do tummy time:

Typically what parents find when they trying to do tummy time, is that they lie baby down in a safe place such as a play mat but very quickly they find a baby won't tolerate it, they might lie with their baby and try and encourage them with play but quickly the baby has a sense of humour failure.

Alternative options:

It's important to remember that there are lots of other options for tummy time, if you are relaxing on your sofa or bed and your baby is lying on your chest facing you then that is valid to tummy time, the tiger in the tree position (pictured) is also excellent tummy time.

Another consideration is baby-wearing:

Using a sling or carrier is not a substitute for truly horizontal tummy time but it does provide an alternative to babies contained on their backs.

"The motion experienced by a baby being held by the carer allows the vestibular balance apparatus to develop more rapidly and enhances neuromotor development and muscle strength. It improves neck and head control…”**

*Lullaby trust-link https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/ons-2015

**https://www.carryingmatters.co.uk/positive-effects-of-carrying-for-baby/

Watch a film about this here.

Would you would like me to visit you at home to support you caring for your baby? Please see the home visits info (here).

Sally