Developing good motor skills in babies is essential for their physical and cognitive growth. One of the best ways parents can help their little ones is through regular tummy time. It is recommended by pediatricians that babies spend up to 30 minutes per day on their tummies. This is where a tummy time bolster comes in handy.
A tummy time bolster is a supportive aid that allows babies to be comfortable and safe while spending time on their tummies. Instead of lying flat on the floor, a bolster lifts the baby’s chest off the ground, providing a better view of their surroundings. Not only does it help develop motor skills but also aids the development of their mind.
Tummy time is vital from a young age as it helps babies strengthen their necks, shoulders, and backs. It also helps prevent the flat head syndrome that can occur in babies who spend too much time on their backs. This condition has become much more common since the “Back to Sleep” campaign. While it’s essential for infants to sleep on their backs, it’s equally crucial for babies to spend time on their tummies, and a bolster can make that experience even better.
Babies who experience regular tummy time can naturally progress towards crawling, sitting up, and eventually, standing and walking. A bolster can make this process much more manageable by reducing the discomfort babies can experience during tummy time. With its gentle slope, a bolster can make it easier for babies to prop themselves up on their forearms and, eventually, their hands.
While some babies love tummy time, it can cause discomfort for others. A bolster can make tummy time a more enjoyable experience by taking pressure off the baby’s chest and stomach. It provides a safe space for the baby to practice the skills they need for their physical development. By having a helping hand, babies feel more at ease, and parents can have peace of mind.
It’s good to start tummy time as early as possible- even in the newborn stage. A bolster can help support the infant’s head and neck when starting tummy time and offers them a new perspective to explore the world around them. As they get older, they can use the tummy time bolster to prop themselves up or simply to relax.
When a baby is comfortable during tummy time, they are more likely to enjoy it. A bolster can help make tummy time feel like a fun activity instead of just an exercise. By using a bolster, babies are more at ease, and parents can encourage their child to a more extended time on their tummies.
A bolster can also help provide babies with a new perspective that they wouldn’t be able to experience while lying flat on their backs. Seeing the world from a different angle can be stimulating for their developing brains. They are already gaining so much knowledge from the sensory receptors coming from visual and tactile stimulation.
A tummy time bolster can benefit both babies and parents alike. They can make tummy time a more enjoyable experience for infants and encourage positive development. Make sure to always supervise and keep a watchful eye on your baby. Encourage tummy time a little every day and you’ll be amazed by how quickly your baby progresses on their developmental journey.
