As a new parent, you want the best for your baby. But with conflicting advice about every decision, it can be difficult to know where to start. Thankfully, tummy time is one of the few recommendations that has remained constant throughout the generations.
In this blog, we’ll explain why tummy time should be part of your daily routine and share the best play mat for tummy time sessions.
Why is tummy time so important for babies?
Letting your little one lie on their tummy while they’re awake helps them to develop their muscles and motor skills. That simple motion of lifting their head strengthens their neck, back and shoulder muscles, all of which are needed for crawling, sitting and walking.
Tummy time also gives your baby a different view of the world, which helps their cognitive development and visual processing. It’s also a great way to take a well-earned break yourself, as all you need to do is supervise.
When should you start tummy time?
Babies can benefit from tummy time as newborns, right up until they’re able to crawl. In the first few weeks, keep your tummy time sessions to 1-2 minutes, then slowly build up to 10-15 minutes several times a day.
How to create a safe space for tummy time
The most important step you can take for safe tummy time is to supervise your child. Babies shouldn’t be left on their front to sleep, so if they start getting tired, it’s best to end the tummy time session.
Tummy time should always be on a flat surface, close to the ground. This prevents your baby from hurting themselves if they roll off. And, like with a sleeping space, any loose blankets and suffocating hazards should be removed.
The best play mat for tummy time
As developers of the airnest range of safe, comfortable sleeping solutions, we set out to create a convenient play mat for tummy time that offers a solution for daytime play. The Foam Play Mat is a sustainable playmat that can be used in a multitude of ways as your child grows.
For tummy time, it offers a water-resistant and hypoallergenic base, with soft support to protect little heads from the floor below, or can be used as a change mat as your little one begins to sit and crawl, it’s a durable, cushioned mat for playing, and as they gain confidence on their feet, it’s perfect for those gymnastics tumbles.
When not in use, the Growbright Foam Play Mat folds to a third of its original size for easy storage. And when you’re on the go, it can even be used as a porta cot mattress.
Buy yours today, or get in touch with any questions about our products.