Why Tummy Time & Sidelying Play Matter for Your Baby’s Development

When you bring your baby home, it’s natural to want to snuggle and hold them close all day long. While cuddles are important, giving your baby time on the floor in different positions is just as essential. Two of the most beneficial early play positions are tummy time and sidelying play. Let’s explore why they’re important and how you can easily build them into your daily routine.

Why Tummy Time Matters

Tummy time means placing your baby on their stomach while they’re awake and supervised. This simple position plays a big role in development:

Strengthens muscles: Lifting their head and pushing up with their arms builds neck, shoulder, and upper body strength.

Prepares for milestones: The skills developed during tummy time lay the groundwork for rolling, sitting, crawling, and eventually walking.

Supports head shape: Spending time on the tummy helps reduce the risk of flat spots that can develop from too much time lying on the back.

Encourages sensory exploration: Being on their tummy gives babies a new view of the world and encourages them to use their vision and reach for toys.

Why Sidelying Play Matters

Sidelying play—placing your baby on their side—may seem less common, but it’s just as valuable:

Promotes balance: Being on the side helps babies develop core strength and stability.

Supports hand development: In this position, babies naturally bring their hands together at midline, which encourages grasping and self-soothing skills.

Encourages rolling: Sidelying helps your baby learn the motions of rolling onto their back or tummy.

Offers variety: It’s a comfortable break from back or tummy positions and keeps your baby engaged.

Tips for Successful Tummy Time

Getting started doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Aim for short, frequent sessions—just a few minutes at a time—gradually increasing as your baby gets stronger.

Start early: Begin as soon as your baby comes home, even for 1–2 minutes at a time.

Get down with them: Lie on the floor face-to-face so your baby feels engaged and secure.

Use a rolled towel: Place it under their chest with arms forward to make the position easier at first.

Make it playful: Offer colorful toys, mirrors, or gentle songs to capture their attention.

Incorporate into routines: Try tummy time after a diaper change, before a nap, or during play breaks throughout the day.

✨ Our #1 Tip for Tummy Time Success

Try taking tummy time off the floor! Place your baby on a safe, supervised surface like the couch, a sturdy table, or even across an exercise ball. Being elevated gives your little one a wider view of their surroundings, which often distracts them from the “hard work” of tummy time and makes the experience more enjoyable. Bonus tip: have siblings, pets, or family members sit or lie down on the floor nearby—your baby will love watching the action and staying visually engaged!

Remember: Little Bits Add Up

Your baby doesn’t need long sessions at first—just a few minutes multiple times a day makes a difference. Follow your baby’s cues, keep it fun, and celebrate every little head lift or wiggle. With consistent tummy time and sidelying play, you’re giving your baby the foundation for strong, coordinated movement and a healthy start.

Parent tip: Think of tummy time and sidelying as your baby’s “first workouts”—short, playful, and filled with encouragement.