Can a Lack of Tummy Time Cause Developmental Delays?

When I first became a neonatal nurse, one of the most common concerns I heard from new parents was about tummy time. I remember a mom who came to me with a worried look on her face. She had just read an article that suggested her baby might face developmental delays because she hadn’t been doing tummy time regularly. 

Her anxiety was palpable, and as a nurse, I knew I had to provide her with the facts—without adding to her stress. If you’ve ever found yourself in this mother’s shoes, this article is for you.

Yes, a lack of tummy time can potentially contribute to developmental delays. Tummy time is crucial for strengthening your baby’s neck, shoulders, and arms, which are essential for motor skills development. Without sufficient tummy time, babies might experience delays in rolling over, sitting up, and other key milestones.

Why Is Tummy Time Important? 

Tummy time is more than just placing your baby on their belly—it's an essential exercise that promotes healthy development. When your baby spends time on their tummy, they work on strengthening the muscles in their neck, shoulders, and upper body. 

This strength is vital for milestones like rolling over, sitting up, and eventually crawling. Tummy time also helps prevent conditions like flat head syndrome, which can occur if a baby spends too much time lying on their back.

Can a Lack of Tummy Time Cause Developmental Delays?

The short answer is yes. When babies don’t get enough tummy time, they might not develop the necessary muscle strength and coordination required for their age-appropriate milestones.

Tummy time is crucial for motor development, which refers to the physical growth and strengthening of muscles needed for movement and coordination. This development is essential for milestones such as rolling over, sitting, crawling, and eventually walking.

Potential Impacts of Insufficient Tummy Time

• Delayed Motor Skills: Without sufficient tummy time, babies may struggle with developing the upper body strength necessary for pushing up, rolling over, and crawling. These are key components of a baby’s motor development.

• Slower Coordination Development: Tummy time helps babies learn to coordinate their movements, such as using their arms to push up and lift their heads. Lack of practice can delay the development of this coordination, impacting their ability to reach, grab, and interact with their environment.

• Flat Head Syndrome (Positional Plagiocephaly): Babies who spend too much time on their backs can develop a flat spot on the back of their heads. Tummy time helps prevent this by encouraging them to spend time in different positions, which helps their skulls develop more evenly.

• Weaker Core and Shoulder Muscles: Tummy time strengthens a baby’s core muscles and shoulders, which are crucial for future motor skills like sitting up and walking. A lack of this activity can result in weaker muscles, making it harder for babies to reach these milestones.

• Delays in Fine Motor Skills: Fine motor skills, such as grasping objects or feeding themselves, also depend on strong upper body and core muscles. Insufficient tummy time can delay the development of these abilities, as babies might struggle with the strength and coordination required for these tasks.

While not all these issues are strictly developmental delays, they are areas where a lack of tummy time can hinder your baby’s overall physical development. Ensuring your baby gets enough tummy time each day can help prevent these potential setbacks and support their growth and development.

How Much Tummy Time Does Your Baby Need?

A good rule of thumb is to aim for 2-3 sessions of tummy time each day, starting with just a few minutes at a time and gradually increasing as your baby gets stronger and more comfortable. By the time your baby is 3 to 4 months old, they should be getting around an hour of tummy time per day, split into multiple sessions.

It’s important to remember that every baby is different, and some might need more encouragement to enjoy tummy time. Don’t worry if your baby fusses at first—start with short sessions and make it a fun, engaging activity.

How Can I Tell If My Baby Is Getting Enough Tummy Time?

You can tell if your baby is getting enough tummy time by watching for certain developmental milestones. By around 3 months, your baby should be able to lift their head and chest off the ground during tummy time. By 4 to 7 months, they should be pushing up on their arms and starting to roll over. If you notice your baby is struggling with these milestones, it might be a sign that they need more tummy time.

Remember, tummy time should always be supervised to ensure your baby’s safety. If you’re concerned about your baby’s progress or have questions about their development, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.

Tips for Making Tummy Time More Effective

Tummy time doesn’t have to be a chore—for you or your baby. Here are a few tips I've learnt over my years being a neonatal nurse to make it more enjoyable and effective:

• Start Early: Begin tummy time as soon as your baby comes home from the hospital. Even a minute or two at a time can make a big difference.

• Use Toys for Engagement: Place colorful, engaging toys within your baby’s reach to encourage them to move and explore during tummy time.

• Join Them on the Floor: Get down on the floor with your baby. Your presence will be comforting, and you can make eye contact, talk, and play with them.

• Use a Mirror: Babies love looking at themselves! Place a baby-safe mirror in front of your baby during tummy time to keep them entertained.

• Use Proper Tools: Ensure your baby is supported and comfortable during tummy time by using appropriate tools, like our Butterfly Baby Pod. These tools are designed to provide a firm yet comfortable surface that encourages proper posture and muscle development, making tummy time more effective and enjoyable for your little one.

What Equipment Can Help with Tummy Time?

When it comes to making tummy time more effective, the right equipment can make all the difference. One of the best tools you can use for tummy time is our Butterfly Baby Pod, specifically designed to support your baby's development. The pod offers a firm yet comfortable surface that encourages better posture and muscle strength. 

The stability provided by the pod allows your baby to push against it, helping to build strength and coordination in their neck, shoulders, and arms. Plus, the Baby Pod is incredibly versatile and portable, making it easy to provide consistent support and comfort for your baby during tummy time, whether you're in the nursery, living room, or even visiting family.

Check it out our Baby Pod here. 

FAQs About Tummy Time and Development

Closing Thoughts

Tummy time is a crucial part of your baby’s development, helping them build the strength and coordination needed to reach important milestones. While a lack of tummy time can contribute to developmental delays, incorporating it into your daily routine can set your baby on the right track. 

For the best support during tummy time, consider using our Butterfly Baby Pod—designed to provide a safe, stable surface that encourages muscle development and movement exploration. At Butterfly Maternity, we’re here to support you and your baby every step of the way.