Tummy Time

Tummy time is supervised time for babies on their tummies for brief periods of time, while they're awake. Tummy time is a great way to help your baby to strengthen the muscles they need for sitting, rolling and crawling. Start tummy time soon after birth. In the first few weeks, try tummy time for one to two minutes. Build up to 10 to 15 minutes several times a day. Side lying is also a great alternative to tummy time, if your baby can't tolerate being on their stomach.

The ‘Back to Sleep’ campaign has reduced the incidence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. As a result of the campaign, babies are spending less time on their tummies during the day.

This, however, can lead to:

• A delay in developing movement skills
• A flattening of the side or back of the head (Information on head turning preference and plagiocephaly)
• Co-ordination and problems in later childhood

The good news is that something as simple as Tummy Time can lessen or eliminate all of these potential problems but always remember - the safest sleeping position for your baby is on their back.