Tummy Time
Salaam and Good Afternoon everyone
So I noticed in the clinic that many moms get concerned when their kid has not started crawling, standing or walking. Most of the time there is nothing to worry about but what we do not realise is that these are complex movements to master for a child that has never done these things before. It just makes sense that kids need to time to develop the strength in order to these movements first, that’s where TUMMY TIME comes in. Just a side note, it is recommended that babies should be on their back to sleep and on their front to play.
Tummy time is super important for a baby's development for several reasons:
Strengthens Muscles: It helps strengthen the muscles in the neck, shoulders, back, and trunk. This is essential for developing motor skills like crawling, sitting, and eventually walking.
Develops Motor Skills: By lifting their head and exploring while on their tummy, babies improve their motor skills and coordination, which are essential for reaching, grasping, and manipulating objects.
Prevents Flat Spots: Spending time on their backs can sometimes lead to a flattening of the head. Tummy time helps prevent this by varying the positions they spend time in.
Visual Development: Tummy time gives babies a different perspective, allowing them to explore their surroundings and develop their visual skills by observing and focusing on objects.
Aids Digestion: Spending time on their tummy can also help reduce discomfort from gas and improve digestion.
Now tummy time should begin when the baby is a newborn and gradually increase as they grow. Remember every baby is different and if you need help or are concerned then check in with your clinic or health care worker. Here are some tips on how to do this:
Start Early: Begin tummy time sessions shortly after birth. Initially, it might only be a few minutes a few times a day.
Gradual Increase: Increase the duration and frequency of tummy time sessions as your baby gets older. Aim for at least 15-20 minutes per day by the time they're three months old.
Engage Them: Use toys, colorful objects, or play mats to encourage your baby to lift their head and explore while on their tummy. This helps develop their neck, back, and shoulder muscles.
Variety: Vary positions during tummy time—try placing them on your chest while you recline, or over a nursing pillow. As they grow, they can also prop themselves up on their elbows.
Supervise Always: Never leave your baby unattended during tummy time, especially if they fall asleep.
Be Supportive: Some babies might not immediately enjoy tummy time, so offer support and encouragement. Try different times of the day when they are most content.
Joke of the week
Why don't skeletons fight each other? They don't have the guts!\
Take Control of Your Life
Each week I will give you a tip to use to take control of your life and the life of your family, think of it as a reminder and homework for the week ahead…
This week I want you to take time out of your busy schedule and with your partner take a moment to reflect on what a blessing your child is in your life. Realise how one smile or the sound of their laugh instantly makes you forget all your troubles and gives you strength. Take a moment to enjoy this epic journey of looking after your child because if you don’t, it will pass you by.
Always remember how fortunate you are and be grateful for the little positive things in your life, there are people in Palestine, Sudan and places even closer to home who are going through some devastating challenges and will wish to have the chance to read to their children- if you are by the means to donate to help then follow the link below, if not that’s fine too but at least make a prayer for those parents and children suffering. Have a lekker week and remember you are doing the best for your baby.
https://giftofthegivers.org/where-we-work/palestine/