Tummy time ideas: how to do it, how long, and what if baby hates it
4 min read
Quick answer
Good tummy time ideas include lying your baby on your chest, getting down face to face on the floor, and placing a toy just within reach. Start from birth, little and often, only while your baby is awake and supervised. Build up towards at least 30 minutes spread across the day.
- Start from birth, on your chest, while you are wide awake
- Little and often: a few minutes at a time to begin
- Aim for at least 30 minutes a day, spread out
- Always awake and supervised
- Always on their back for sleep
Why tummy time matters
Tummy time builds strength in your baby's back, neck and shoulders. The AAP says it helps babies build the muscles and skills they need for important milestones.
It also gives the back of your baby's head a break. Babies sleep on their backs, so varying their position while awake helps prevent a flat spot. The AAP adds that a flat spot usually rounds out as babies grow and sit up.
When can I start tummy time?
You can start from birth. The NHS suggests having your baby lie on your chest, but only at times when you are fully alert and not drowsy. The AAP says you can start the day your baby comes home.
Once your baby is ready, try tummy time on the floor, with you down at their level.
How much tummy time does my baby need?
Little and often is best at first. The AAP suggests 2 to 3 sessions a day of about 3 to 5 minutes, building up to 15 to 30 minutes a day by 7 weeks.
WHO recommends that babies who are not yet moving about have at least 30 minutes on their tummy each day, spread through the day, while awake. Several short sessions count just as much as one long one.
Easy tummy time ideas to try
Mix these up so tummy time feels like play rather than a task:
- Chest to chest: lie back and rest your baby on your chest so they can lift their head to see you
- Lap time: lay your baby across your lap and talk to them
- Face to face on the floor: lie down so your eyes are level with theirs, then talk or sing
- Toys in a circle: place a few toys around your baby so they reach in different directions
- Rolled towel support: put a small rolled-up towel under their arms to prop them up a little
- Just out of reach: put yourself or a toy just out of reach so they look up and stretch towards you
- Sibling help: an older brother or sister can play with your baby on the floor while you supervise
What to do if your baby hates tummy time
Plenty of babies protest at first. Keep sessions short and do them daily, rather than pushing through tears. Lying your baby on your chest or lap, talking or singing, and having a toy within reach can all help. The AAP says some babies do not like the position at first, but they come to enjoy it in time.
Pick a time when your baby is awake and content. The AAP suggests trying it after a nappy change or after a nap. If they cry, pick them up, comfort them and try again later.
Tummy time safety
Tummy time is only for when your baby is awake and alert and you are watching. Babies must always be put down to sleep on their back, for every nap and at night. If your baby falls asleep during tummy time, gently move them onto their back in their cot.
- Stay with your baby the whole time
- Do not do chest tummy time if you feel sleepy
- Vary your baby's position while they are awake
- Limit time in swings, bouncy chairs and car seats
Sources
We check this guide against these sources. It is general information, not medical advice: speak to your health visitor, GP or paediatrician about your own baby.
Questions parents ask
What should my baby be able to do during tummy time?
Babies develop at their own pace. The CDC says most babies push up onto their elbows or forearms when on their tummy by around 4 months. These are typical ranges, not a test. If you are worried about how your baby lifts their head or moves, talk to your health visitor or GP.
Does carrying my baby count as tummy time?
Lying your baby tummy down on your chest while you are awake counts, and the NHS suggests it from birth. Carrying them upright is good for closeness but is not the same as time on the tummy. Add floor time once your baby is ready, so they can push up and move freely.
How do I fit tummy time into a busy day?
Tie it to things you already do. A minute or two after each nappy change, a session on your chest while you watch something, or a few minutes on the floor before a bath all add up. Short, regular sessions are easier for your baby and easier for you to remember.
When can I stop doing tummy time?
Once your baby is rolling, crawling and moving around freely, they spend time on their tummy naturally during floor play. WHO's 30 minute guide applies to babies who are not yet mobile. Keep offering plenty of floor time, and keep limiting long spells strapped into seats.