"Tummy Time" important for babies
By Ida Haxton HTF Contributor
In 1994 the American Academy of Pediatrics made a recommendation known as the “back to sleep” program, stating that it is safest for babies to sleep on their backs. As a result of this, the incidence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) has been reduced by up to 50%.
Pediatricians have noticed other things that are of concern being attributed to the “back to sleep” recommendation. One of these concerns is the increase in the number of infants developing positional plagiocephaly. Positional plagiocephaly is the term used when a baby’s skull, that is still relatively soft, develops flat spots due to frequent positioning of a baby on its back. Other problems being seen include delays in achieving developmental milestones in the areas of gross and fine motor skills, and delays in speech progression.
As a result of these findings a new recommendation that an infant spend some time while awake on his stomach was implemented. This recommendation is often called “Tummy Time.” It is recommended that an infant spend at least 30 minutes a day on his/her tummy.
“Tummy Time” positions a baby so it relieves pressure on the back of the head. It also presents an opportunity for the infant to work the upper body and neck muscles by lifting and rotating the head, pushing through the hands, arms and shoulders and arching the back.
While this sounds like a simple request many parents are finding it difficult to incorporate this routine into their baby’s day. Babies who are used to sleeping on their backs frequently find it distressing and uncomfortable to be put into this unfamiliar position. As a result they may cry out. As a parent of an infant the instant response is to comfort your child and take away their distress.
There are ways that you can make this important time comfortable and less stressful for your baby. One great way to do this is to start small. The 30 minute recommendation doesn’t have to be done at one time. Short periods on the tummy can be done right after a diaper change. Just remember safety precautions and securely hold your child if placing them on the tummy on a changing table or other elevated surface. A great way to decrease a baby’s anxiety is to lie on your back and place the baby on your chest during tummy time. If placing your baby on the floor stay close and use rattles and other infant toys as a distraction. As your baby’s head control improves you can prop him/her on a rolled towel or nursing pillow. This will allow your child to reach, grasp and play.
If you would like even more information True Care Medical Therapy Center is presenting a one hour workshop on Thursday July 29 from 6-7p.m. on Tummy Time. For professionals interested there will be a certificate of attendance and agenda available.
Ida Haxton is the owner of True Care Therapy in Cook,
MN.
