How to Help Your Baby Lift Their Head During Tummy Time
Quick Answer: Use the towel roll technique! Place a rolled towel (about 4 inches thick) under your baby's chest during tummy time. This simple trick reduces the weight they have to lift and makes head lifting much easier and more enjoyable.
If your baby struggles to lift their head during tummy time, you're not alone. Many parents wonder why their little one seems to have such difficulty with this milestone, but there may be a simple explanation, and an even simpler solution.
Why Do Babies Struggle to Lift Their Heads?
Imagine if your head weighed a quarter of your entire body weight. For an adult, that would be like carrying around a 37-pound cinder block on your neck! This is exactly what babies deal with during their early development.
Babies are born with proportionally large heads compared to their body size. Some babies have heads that are even larger in proportion, which can make lifting their head during tummy time particularly challenging. While this might lead to minor delays in motor milestones, babies typically catch up quickly with the right support.
When Should Babies Start Lifting Their Heads?
Timeline for head lifting milestones:
Birth to 1 month: Brief head lifting for 1-2 seconds
1-2 months: Lifting head 45 degrees for several seconds
2-3 months: Lifting head 45-90 degrees consistently
3-4 months: Strong, steady head control during tummy time
Remember, every baby develops at their own pace, and some may need extra support to reach these milestones comfortably.
How Can I Make Head Lifting Easier for My Baby?
The towel roll technique is a game-changer for babies who struggle with tummy time. This simple method "outsmarts gravity" by reducing the amount of weight your baby needs to lift.
The Towel Roll Technique:
Roll a towel to create a thickness of about 4 inches
Place the towel under your baby's chest during tummy time
Position their arms forward, in front of the towel
Ensure elbows are under or slightly in front of their shoulders
By raising your baby's chest slightly off the floor, you effectively shift their weight away from their head. This makes their head feel lighter and much more manageable to lift.
Why Does the Towel Roll Technique Work?
When you elevate your baby's chest with the towel roll, several things happen:
Weight distribution changes: Less of your baby's body weight is transferred to their head and neck, making lifting easier.
Leverage improves: The elevated position gives your baby better mechanical advantage for using their neck muscles.
Confidence builds: Success with head lifting encourages your baby to practice more, leading to stronger muscles.
Comfort increases: Tummy time becomes more enjoyable, reducing fussiness and resistance.
How Long Should I Use the Towel Roll?
Use the towel roll technique as long as your baby benefits from it. Some babies need support for just a few weeks, while others may use it for 2-3 months. Gradually reduce the towel thickness as your baby's strength improves, eventually removing it completely when they can lift their head confidently on their own.
What Other Techniques Can Help with Head Lifting?
Additional strategies to support head lifting:
Start with shorter sessions: even 30 seconds is beneficial for beginners
Use engaging toys: place objects at eye level to motivate lifting
Try different surfaces: some babies prefer firmer or softer surfaces
Timing matters: attempt tummy time when baby is alert but not hungry
Environmental modifications:
Get down on their level and make eye contact
Use mirrors to create visual interest
Play music or sing to keep them engaged
Is It Normal for My Baby to Hate Tummy Time?
Many babies initially resist tummy time because it's challenging work for them. The towel roll technique often transforms the experience from frustrating to enjoyable by making success more achievable.
If your baby continues to resist even with the towel support, try shorter sessions, different times of day, or consulting with a pediatric physical therapist for additional strategies.
How Often Should We Practice?
Recommended tummy time schedule:
Newborns: Start with 2-3 minutes, several times daily
1-2 months: Work up to 15-20 minutes total per day
3-4 months: Aim for 20-30 minutes total per day
Quality matters more than quantity. Several short, successful sessions are better than one long, frustrating experience.
The Bottom Line
The towel roll technique is a simple, effective way to help your baby succeed at tummy time by making head lifting easier and more enjoyable. By "outsmarting gravity," you give your baby the support they need to build strength and confidence.
Remember that babies with proportionally large heads may need this support longer, and that's completely normal. Focus on making tummy time a positive experience.
For more comprehensive guidance on supporting your baby's movement development, check out my book "Meaningful Movement: A Parent's Guide to Play". You'll discover simple ways to create spaces that provide natural opportunities for movement and growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How thick should the towel roll be? A: About 4 inches thick works for most babies, but you can adjust based on your baby's size and comfort level.
Q: Is it safe to use the towel roll technique? A: Yes, when used during supervised tummy time. Never use towels or rolls during sleep, and always stay with your baby during tummy time.
Q: My baby still can't lift their head at 3 months. Should I be worried? A: Consult your pediatrician if there's no head lifting by 3 months, as early intervention can be very helpful for developing strength.
Q: Can I use something other than a towel? A: Yes! A small pillow, rolled blanket can work. The key is creating the right height and firmness for support.
Q: How long should my baby be able to lift their head? A: Start with just a few seconds and gradually work up to several minutes as their strength improves. Follow your baby's cues for comfort.
Related Topics:
Building Tummy Time Consistency
P.S. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for skilled physical therapy intervention. While I am a physical therapist, I am not your child's physical therapist. If you have questions or concerns about your child's health and/or development, please contact your pediatrician.