You know you should always place your baby to sleep on his or her back to help prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). This American Academy of Pediatrics’ recommendation has helped to significantly reduce the number of babies lost to SIDS.
But with all the time babies spend face-up, playtime on their stomachs is important to their development. Help your little one put in some “tummy time” each day to strengthen shoulder and neck muscles, develop motor skills and prevent flat spots on the back of the head from laying face-up so much of the time.
- Spread a baby blanket on
the floor and scatter a
few bright and safe baby
toys to catch your
baby’s interest.
- If she is alert and
ready to play, she may
enjoy a few sessions of
“tummy time” each day,
pushing up and learning
to hold her head steady
under your watchful
eye.
- Try these sessions for 3
to 5 minutes, 2–3 times
a day.
- If your baby falls asleep while on her stomach, turn her over on to her back to nap safely.
See also ...
• Back to sleep; tummy to play
• VIDEO: The importance of tummy time
This message is not intended to provide individual medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician or qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have about your health or medical condition, your breastfeeding issues and your infant's health. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you have read in our emails, webpages or other electronic communications.
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