Here are some tummy time tactics to try with your baby:
Start introducing tummy time to your baby early. When your baby
is first born he may not have a preference for how he is positioned. When he
is awake and supervised try to place him on his tummy. Try letting him lay on
his tummy across your lap while you rub his back.
Start off with just a few minutes of tummy time per day. A good
start is two or three minutes at a time. You can try putting your baby on her
tummy for a couple of minutes after every diaper change.
Use a boppy pillow. Boppy pillows are great for positioning
your baby on her tummy. Place baby’s arms over the top of the boppy pillow.
You can place toys or mirrors near by for her to grab and play with.
Get on the floor with your baby. Your baby will have a lot more
fun doing tummy time if you are close by. Lay beside him on the floor and play
with him. You can also lay on your back and place your baby on top of your belly.
Once your baby is a little older your can try doing floor exercises with your
baby. Lay on your back like you are going to do a sit up, bend your knees and
put baby across your knees. You can do abdominal crunches while you hold your
baby’s hands. It is great exercise and your baby will love it.
Put a folding mirror or toy with a mirror on the floor in front
of your baby. Babies really enjoy looking at mirrors and seeing their reflection.
Encourage your baby to reach for toys by shaking rattles or
keys in front of him. You might be surprised when he suddenly starts scooting
around to get them.
Help your baby learn to roll over by putting a blanket underneath
her. You can help her practice rolling over by gently rolling her over using
the blanket.
