Why is Tummy Time So Important

We have all heard that tummy time is important for our children, but not everyone is sure why it is such a big deal. We have many parents bringing their infants in saying that they do not like the tummy time position. This is often compounded by our busy lifestyles that do not accommodate spending the time down on the ground with our little ones. (1-2) The World Health Organisation recommends up to 30 minutes tummy time a day for infants under the age of 1. (3)

A study released this year from the University of Wollongong highlighted the importance of tummy time in the development of our children. It was found to help with a number of developmental domains including motor development, social communication and cognition. (1) This study showed that infants who had more regular tummy time had greater locomotion and achieved milestones, such as rolling over, crawling, sitting, pulling to stand earlier than their peers who had less tummy time. (1) 
A significant positive association was also found in communication up to the age of 1 year and cognition (problem solving) up to the age of 2 years. (1)

So, what can you do if you and your child is struggling with tummy time? To start with, make sure that you have something to engage your child with while they are doing their tummy time; break out the toys, or even better, get down there with them and engage. (2) 
It has been reported in observational studies that chiropractic care can be effective in helping you and you baby achieve your tummy time milestones. More studies are needed in this area however the 2019 study’s findings indicate that, on average, the changes observed by mothers were positive and may be clinically relevant. (4)  If your baby continues to have trouble with tummy time, please contact us to see how we might be able to help you.