Pathways Sets Standards for Tummy Time
Why Tummy Time Is More Important Than Ever
Although the back-to-sleep initiative has effectively reduced cases of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) by 40 percent, babies now miss out on the 12 hours of tummy time they used to get during sleep. As a result, many babies don’t get the stretching and strengthening of the back and neck muscles they need, which can lead to or exacerbate an early motor delay.
Most parents know to give their children tummy time. But how much tummy time is necessary? When should babies start? What activities are best?
The Pathways Awareness Medical Round Table is a group of experts on early motor delays—pediatricians, surgeons, physical therapists, nurses, and researchers. Based on mounting research and the wide variety of opinions on the amount tummy time babies need, the Pathways Medical Round Table developed a set of standards for tummy time that outline when to start, how much babies need, and the best ways to encourage tummy time.
Research shows that one in 40 babies is diagnosed with an early motor delay, and 400,000 babies a year are at risk. The term “early motor delay” describes a wide variety of conditions, ranging from low muscle tone to cerebral palsy. Some early motor delays are present at birth, and others develop or are exacerbated because the baby doesn’t get enough tummy time. The good news is that most cases are not serious, and with physical therapy and a strategy of tummy time while awake, most children can catch up quickly.
- Tummy time for newborns
- Tummy time for babies three weeks and up
- Signs of early motor delays
- What if I suspect an early motor delay?
- Five Moves for Baby's First Workout
