When To Give Your Baby a Break From Tummy Time
Tummy time should be an enjoyable experience for your baby. It is one of many positions for play in your baby's repertoire, and play is your baby's primary way to learn. Have you ever tried learning something new when you’re upset? Not ideal, is it?
Don't be afraid to give your baby rest breaks as needed. There's no need to push through tears.
But how do you know it’s time for a rest break?
Try this:
Take the time to observe your baby and notice whether they are exhibiting signs of effort and problem-solving.
Signs of effort and problem-solving can seem like frustration. But as you learn your baby’s cues, you’ll notice a difference when your baby needs a break, and when there is an active learning process occurring.
Signs of effort and problem-solving could look like: a baby being very vocal and making noises that might sound like frustration, but they are continuing to make movements with their body like pushing into the floor, random movements of arms and legs, intermittent lifting of their head.
Versus a baby that is no longer showing signs of effort: they are no longer making attempts to move around, and crying.
Want to learn how your baby's tummy time skills unfold? Click here for a granular breakdown of what you can expect by age.
