Navigating the early stages of parenthood comes with a sea of terms and practices, one of which is ‘tummy time’. This crucial activity helps infants build strength and explore their surroundings. To make this experience more enjoyable and beneficial, it’s essential to incorporate stimulating tummy time toys into the mix.

These special toys not only keep your baby entertained but also contribute to their developmental milestones. This comprehensive guide will delve into the importance of tummy time and how to choose the best tummy time toys to enhance this essential practice.

What is Tummy Time?

Tummy time is an important activity recommended by pediatricians, starting from when your baby is a newborn. It is generally done when baby is awake and alert, and it can be initiated from the first day a baby is brought home. During tummy time, parents or caregivers can interact with the baby, providing tummy time toys and other stimulating objects for the baby to focus on.

Tummy time might start as a brief activity for newborns and can gradually increase in duration as the baby grows and strengthens. It can be done on a flat, safe surface such as a blanket on the floor. Many parents also use specially designed play mats or tummy time pillows to make the experience more comfortable for baby.

Tummy time can be divided into a few different sessions throughout the day. The goal is not to make the baby uncomfortable but rather to introduce a new perspective and help them strengthen their muscles. Read what to do if your baby hates tummy time.

Benefits of Tummy Time

Muscle Development and Strengthening: One of the most immediate benefits of tummy time is the strengthening of the baby’s neck, shoulder, and arm muscles. When the baby lifts their head during tummy time, they’re working out these muscles. Over time, this helps support their ability to roll over, sit up, crawl, and eventually walk.

Prevention of Flat Spots on the Head: Spending all their time on their back can lead to the development of flat spots on a baby’s head, a condition known as positional plagiocephaly. Tummy time gives their head a break and helps to keep it round.

Visual and Motor Skill Development: When babies are on their tummies, they get a new perspective on their surroundings. They get a chance to explore and interact with toys and objects around them. This not only engages but also aids in their visual development and hand-eye coordination.

Promotion of Healthy Milestone Achievement: Allowing your baby to engage with tummy time toys aids in reaching important developmental milestones. These include rolling over, pushing up, crawling, and sitting unassisted. By strengthening the muscles needed for these movements, tummy time serves as a building block for later motor skills.

Sensory Development: Tummy time also allows babies to explore different textures, temperatures, and the sensation of gravity. This is a good chance for them to have varied sensory experiences, which can foster brain development.

Bonding Time: Tummy time can also be a great opportunity for parents to bond with their babies. By getting down on their level and engaging with them, parents can build a stronger emotional connection with their baby.

Our Top Pick For Tummy Time Toys

Dive into our lovingly curated collection of tummy time toys, where each item is chosen with the utmost care to not only support your baby’s developmental milestones but also to bring joy and laughter to their daily play. These picks are sure to make tummy time a delightful experience for both you and your little explorer.

Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick ‘n Play Piano Gym

This multi-functional toy serves as a tummy time mat, a kick-at piano, and a play gym. It provides both auditory and visual stimulation, with colorful toys dangling above and a piano that responds to your baby’s kicks.

Infantino Prop-A-Pillar Tummy Time & Seated Support

This is a versatile tummy time toy, acting as a supportive prop for infants still working on neck strength. It also unfolds into a playful caterpillar for when the baby is ready for belly exploration.

Bright Starts Tummy Time Prop & Play

This comfy bear-themed mat is perfect for tummy time. It features a baby-safe mirror for self-discovery and other toys for reaching and grabbing exercises.

Baby Einstein Tummy Time Mirror

A tummy time mirror can be fascinating for babies. This particular one also includes flip-through art cards featuring real-world imagery.

Splashin’kids Inflatable Tummy Time Premium Water Mat

This mat is a popular choice among parents for providing an engaging and fun tummy time experience for their babies.

The bright colors and floating toys within the mat are designed to keep your baby’s attention, promoting sensory development and enhancing hand-eye coordination.

Tiny Love Meadow Days Super Play Mat

This extra-large mat provides plenty of space for tummy time and features engaging textures and crinkly fabrics that stimulate your baby’s senses.

Crawling Tummy Time Crab

This crawling toy is like a live crab, walking back and forth sideways with cheerful music, which arouses baby’s great interest and will encourage them to move forward on their hands and knees to catch it.

Bright colors, dynamic music,and shiny crab eyes are baby’s favorites, attracting them with their alluring charm. They motivate babies to lift their heads, strengthening their neck and shoulder muscles while improving their motor skills.

VTech Tummy Time Discovery Pillow

This giraffe tummy time toy provides comfortable support for your baby; a key component to the development of important motor skills.

The light-up piano keys introduce colors & objects while short musical tunes play, developing fine motor skills and providing auditory stimulation.

Top Tips For Making Playing WIth Tummy Time Toys a Success

Tummy time can be a challenge for some babies, but it’s an important activity for developing their muscles and motor skills. Here are some tips to make tummy time more enjoyable and effective if your baby seems resistant:

Start Slowly: If your baby is resistant, begin with short sessions of about one to two minutes and gradually increase the duration as they get more comfortable.

Timing is Key: Try tummy time when your baby is most content and alert, often after a diaper change or nap. Avoid tummy time right after feeding to prevent discomfort.

Get Down There Too: Lie down on the floor face-to-face with your baby. Your presence can be comforting and engaging for them.

Use Props: Place a rolled-up towel or a small pillow under your baby’s chest to help prop them up. This can make it easier for them to lift their head and might be more comfortable.

Engage with Toys: Place brightly colored toys or a tummy time mirror within reach to encourage your baby to reach out and interact, which helps strengthen their muscles and keeps them interested.

Change the Scenery: Try different locations for tummy time. Sometimes a change in scenery can help—a play mat in another room, or even outdoors on a blanket if the weather is nice.

Include Siblings: If there are older siblings, involve them in a safe and controlled manner. They can be great at drawing the baby’s attention and making tummy time fun.

Encourage Movement: Use toys or move around yourself to encourage your baby to turn their head and follow you or the toys, promoting neck strength and mobility.

Be Patient and Positive: Babies pick up on their parents’ feelings. Stay calm and positive, gently encouraging your baby during tummy time.

Consult Professionals: If your baby seems unusually upset or if you have concerns about their reaction to tummy time, it might be helpful to talk to your pediatrician or a pediatric physical therapist for guidance and to rule out any underlying issues.

Closing Thoughts From Me

Selecting the best tummy time toys is about finding that sweet spot between entertainment and developmental support. The options we’ve explored in this article provide a diverse range of activities, textures, and sensory experiences to engage your baby during tummy time, fostering their physical and cognitive development in these crucial early stages.

Remember, the best toy is one that not only captivates your little one’s attention but also encourages them to stretch, reach, and grow. Whether it’s a colorful mat with engaging textures or a tummy time mirror toy that promotes self-discovery, the right toys can turn these important moments into a joyful and enriching part of your baby’s day. Happy playing!

FAQs

What is tummy time? Tummy time is supervised, awake time when your baby lies on their tummy. It is essential for their motor skill development.

Why are tummy time toys important? Tummy time toys offer sensory stimulation, enhance motor skills, and provide social and emotional benefits.

What factors should I consider when choosing tummy time toys? You should consider safety, age appropriateness, and educational value.

When should I start tummy time for my baby? You can start your baby with tummy time toys as soon as your they come home from the hospital. However, consult your pediatrician for personal advice.

Can tummy time toys aid in achieving developmental milestones? Yes, tummy time toys can aid your baby in reaching developmental milestones like rolling over, sitting up, and eventually crawling and walking.