Help! My baby HATES Tummy Time

Progressive Pediatric Therapy • February 26, 2024

A baby is laying on a bed looking at a tablet.

Fun, Creative, and Effective Tummy Time Exercises for Your Little One!

Are you struggling to help your baby to enjoy tummy time? Progressive Pediatric Therapy is here to show you many ways to make tummy time exercise playful and fun for you and your baby!

Try these simple yet effective tips – and remember: Back to sleep, Tummy to play, Do it every day!

Start Early

Begin these exercises the day you bring your baby home. Newborn babies can safely be on their stomach whenever they are awake. When babies start early, they quickly get used to the position and become stronger in their necks and backs. But tummy time doesn’t just have to happen on the floor. In fact, because your baby’s head is the heaviest part of their body when they are small, and they enjoy being held and cuddled, the floor is probably not the best place to start. Try some of these options instead that will help take the ‘weight off’ both you and your baby as they learn to lift their little heads. Once you get the idea, you will see that tummy time is easy and can happen anywhere and anytime!

Newborn Chest to Chest Snuggle

This comforting position provides a great opportunity for babies to get off their backs. Be sure to practice turning babies head to each side as they snuggle. It can be done sitting or in a reclining position. Soon your baby will begin to bob their head up and down and turn it themselves as they begin to practice using their neck muscles.

A woman is holding a baby and a woman is holding a baby.

Infant Breast/Bottle Feeding

Be sure to have baby nurse on both sides as much as possible, as a natural and routine way to actively turn their head to both sides. If bottle feeding, alternate which arm you hold your baby on and use the bottle to gently guide the baby to turn their head, once they have latched on. The muscles in the face and mouth are all connected to the neck muscles, so gently turning the head to either side while sucking can easily improve your baby’s neck strength and flexibility.
A woman is holding a baby who is drinking from a bottle.

Family Affair

Get siblings, pets, or caregivers involved. Having familiar faces around can turn tummy time into a delightful social activity. Raise up their chest slightly to encourage them to look up to see your face and smiles as you sing and talk to them.
A man is laying on a bed holding a baby and a woman is holding a baby.

Yoga Ball Fun

Gently place your baby on a yoga ball, supporting them securely with their hips lower than their shoulders. This not only strengthens their little muscles but also brings giggles and smiles. Try placing the ball in front of a mirror to help you see their precious smiles, then bring your face close to theirs on each side to help them turn to look for you in a fun peekaboo game.
A collage of three pictures of a baby playing with a pilates ball.

Lap Time

Waiting somewhere, watching TV? Lay your baby across your lap. It’s a comforting way for them to do tummy time while you’re relaxing, in a waiting room, at social events, etc.
Two pictures of a woman holding a baby and a woman playing with a baby.

Play ‘Airplane’

Safely hold your baby, belly down, in your arms and zoom around the room. It’s an adventure for them and a workout for you!
A woman is holding a baby in her arms on a mat.

Toy Circle

Create a circle of toys around your baby during tummy time. It encourages them to reach out, enhancing their motor skills.
A woman is sitting on the floor with a baby.

Babywearing Magic

When out shopping, going to an appointment, or for a walk, opt for babywearing and leave the car seat in the car. It’s great for posture and bonding, as well as more stimulating for your baby. When your baby gets older, turn them around so they can practice holding their head up and experience all the sights and sounds of the world around them!
A man and a woman are holding a baby in a carrier.

Elevated Surfaces/Sofa Adventures

Use wedges or an elevated surface for a different tummy time experience. Prop your baby over a couch cushion placed on the floor. It can be more engaging for your baby, as well as a cozy and secure way for them to enjoy tummy time. The soft arm of the sofa can be a perfect spot for your little one to enjoy tummy time. It’s soft and just the right size. Always keep a hand on their backs for safety as they start doing their baby pushups!
A baby is sitting on a couch and laying on a pillow.

Eye-Level Interaction

Place a play mat on a table (with supervision, of course) so your baby is at eye level. Talk to them during this time; it’s great for bonding and development.
A woman is sitting on a couch holding a baby while another woman looks on.

Vertical Start

Begin with more vertical, inclined positions rather than flat on the floor. It can be more comfortable for some babies
A woman is holding a baby and playing with a toy.

Maximize Awake Time

Try to use any awake time for a bit of tummy time. It’s all about making the most of these moments.

Gentle Support

If your baby struggles to hold their head up, gently prompt them under the chin. It’s a helpful nudge.

Tummy time can be a wonderful part of your baby’s day with these simple, playful activities. Remember, every little moment counts in their growth and development. Have fun and cherish these beautiful moments!

 

PPT is committed to empowering children and families through specialized Physical, Occupational, Speech, and Feeding Therapy. With a compassionate team of pediatric therapists, PPT focuses on providing individualized care, enhancing development, and fostering hope and happiness in a supportive environment.

Curious if your child could benefit from our services?  Contact us  for an evaluation. For more parenting tips and tricks, don’t forget to subscribe to our blog and  YouTube channel . Share your own experiences in the comments below, or reach out if you have any questions!

The post Help! My baby HATES Tummy Time appeared first on PPT4Kids.

How to Prepare Your Child with Sensory Challenges for Summer Travel

June 5, 2025
Summer is a season of sunshine, adventures, and unforgettable memories. But for families of children with sensory challenges, the thought of travel can also bring anxiety and overwhelm. At Progressive Pediatric Therapy, we believe every child deserves the chance to enjoy summer experiences, comfortably and confidently. With a little planning and the right support, travel can be not just manageable but truly enjoyable!

Staying Safe and Making Waves: Water Safety & Aquatic Therapy for Kids

May 22, 2025
As temperatures rise and summer approaches, families across South Florida flock to the water for fun, relaxation, and play. But alongside the excitement comes an important responsibility, water safety . At Progressive Pediatric Therapy, we use this time of year not only to promote safe swimming habits but also to spotlight one of our most exciting specialty services: Aquatic Therapy .

Celebrating Better Hearing and Speech Month: How Speech-Language Pathologists Help Children Thrive

May 8, 2025
May is a month of blooming possibilities and brighter days, and for those of us at Progressive Pediatric Therapy, it also marks Better Hearing and Speech Month . A time to shine a spotlight on communication and the professionals who make a lifelong difference: Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) .

Celebrating Occupational Therapy Month: How OTs Help Children Thrive

April 30, 2025
In the vibrant world of childhood development, every child learns, plays, and grows in their own unique way. But for some, everyday activities like holding a crayon, tying shoes, or interacting with peers can be challenging. That’s where the role of an Occupational Therapist becomes so important. In honor of Occupational Therapy Month , let’s take a closer look at what pediatric OTs do, how they support children’s development, and why their work matters so much.

Understanding and Celebrating Autism Acceptance Month

April 30, 2025
April is a month full of fresh starts, bright colors, and meaningful moments but, for many families it holds a deeper purpose. It marks Autism Acceptance Month , a time to celebrate, spread awareness, and foster genuine inclusion for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Step Up For Students: How to Get Your Child's Therapy Services Covered

March 3, 2025
Discover how the Step Up For Students scholarship can help families afford high-quality therapy services for children with unique abilities. Learn about eligibility, covered therapies, and how to apply for funding at Progressive Pediatric Therapy. Empower your child’s future—get started today!

Creating a Sensory Calming Corner in Your Preschool Classroom

By Progressive Pediatric Therapy • August 20, 2024
Progressive Pediatric Therapy (PPT) is committed to empowering children and families through specialized Physical, Occupational, Speech, and Feeding Therapy. With a compassionate team of pediatric therapists, PPT focuses on providing individualized care, enhancing development, and fostering hope and happiness in a supportive environment. The post Creating a Sensory Calming Corner in Your Preschool Classroom appeared first on PPT4Kids.
A chalkboard with the words school 's out for summer written on it

Preventing Summer Slide: Keep Your Kids Engaged with Lively Letters!

By Progressive Pediatric Therapy • June 7, 2024
The post Preventing Summer Slide: Keep Your Kids Engaged with Lively Letters! appeared first on PPT4Kids.
A woman is swimming in a pool with her hand out of the water.

Autism and Water Safety: Essential Tips and Resources for Families

By Progressive Pediatric Therapy • May 7, 2024
Learn vital water safety tips for children with autism. Explore expert advice and resources to keep your family safe. Prevent drowning accidents with practical solutions tailored for children with autism. The post Autism and Water Safety: Essential Tips and Resources for Families appeared first on PPT4Kids.
A baby is sitting on the floor surrounded by toys and a book.

Unlocking Your Toddler’s Full Potential: The Magic of Occupational Therapy

By Progressive Pediatric Therapy • April 10, 2024
Pediatric OT helps toddlers master daily skills, from self-care to sensory processing, boosting confidence and independence for life's early adventures. The post Unlocking Your Toddler’s Full Potential: The Magic of Occupational Therapy appeared first on PPT4Kids.
More Posts