Active play for babies

What is active play?

Active play is important from birth. For babies this is called tummy time. 

For toddlers and preschoolers, active play includes things like rolling, walking, running, and playing freely. 

What is tummy time?

Tummy time is the first kind of active play for babies. It happens when your baby is awake and you put them on their tummy.

Tummy time helps your baby build strength in their head, neck, and upper body. This will help them learn to push up, roll and sit up. Tummy time also helps your baby stand and sit well and helps with toilet training.

How do I do tummy time?

• Start tummy time one week after your baby is born. Do it for 1-2 minutes, about 2-4 times a day.

• As your baby gets stronger, slowly increase the time of tummy time to at least 30 minutes spread throughout the day 

• If your baby does not like tummy time, you can put them on your chest or lap instead.