Health Tip: Enjoying Tummy Time
01/12/11
(HealthDay News) -- Tummy time helps babies develop strong
muscles, but your infant may be less than enthusiastic about the
idea.
While an infant should always
sleep on his or her back, tummy time is recommended when the
baby is awake and being observed.
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests how to make tummy
time more enjoyable for your little one:
- Set a toy on the floor just beyond baby's reach to encourage
reaching for it.
- Surround baby with toys to encourage moving different muscles
in different directions.
- Lie on the floor and put baby on your chest. Baby should
struggle to lift his or her head to better see your face.
- As you or a caregiver look on, let another young child get down
on the floor with baby during tummy time, as it can be fun for both
children.
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