As a parent, you want the best for your baby’s development. One crucial aspect is tummy time. It’s an exercise where infants lay on their stomachs to help build their strength and coordination. Pediatricians recommend it as it can improve motor skills and prevent flat spots on their heads. However, some babies may dislike it as it’s a new and unfamiliar position. That’s where a tummy time pillow or bolster comes in handy.
A tummy time pillow is a cushion that elevates your baby’s chest and arms off the ground, making it more comfortable and enjoyable for them. You can use it right from birth, and it’s suitable for infants up to six months old. It has several benefits that can aid in your baby’s development, such as:
Builds Upper Body Strength
When your baby lays on their stomach, they will naturally try to push themselves up with their arms. It’s an excellent activity to help strengthen their neck, shoulder, chest, and arm muscles. With the support of a tummy time bolster, they can gradually increase their endurance and hold themselves up for longer periods.
Develops Gross Motor Skills
As your baby gains upper body strength, they will also start to learn to roll over, crawl, and sit up. These skills are crucial milestones in their gross motor development and will pave the way for walking and running. Tummy time helps babies to gain control of their head and body movements and enhance spatial awareness.
Prevents Head Flattening
When babies spend most of their time on their backs, it can cause flattening of the head, especially if they sleep on their back. Tummy time allows them to change position and relieve the pressure on the back of their head. By using a tummy time bolster, you can elevate their upper body and reduce the risk of developing a flat spot.
Enhances Sensory Development
Laying on their stomach gives babies a new perspective of the world. They can see and touch things they couldn’t before, strengthening their sensory development. By using a tummy time bolster, their reach will increase, and they can explore their surroundings with more ease.
Using a Tummy Time Pillow Safely
It’s essential to use a tummy time bolster safely to avoid any accidents or injuries. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Always supervise your baby during tummy time. Never leave them unattended.
- Start with short sessions of tummy time, gradually increasing the duration as your baby gets stronger and comfortable.
- Place the pillow on a flat and firm surface. Avoid soft surfaces like beds or sofas.
- Never use a tummy time bolster as a sleeping aid.
- Use a pillow that is the appropriate size for your baby’s age and weight.
- Avoid using a pillow that’s too high, as it can cause strain on their neck or upper body.
Tummy time is an excellent way to aid your baby’s development, and using a tummy time bolster can make it more comfortable and enjoyable for them. It helps them build upper body strength, develop gross motor skills, prevent head flattening, and enhances sensory development. Always use it safely and under supervision, and remember to cherish these precious moments with your little one.
