Because babies sleep on their back (rightly and safely), they need awake tummy time to develop different muscles.
- Start once home from the hospital — a few minutes, 2–3 times a day.
- Lay baby tummy-down on your chest or a flat, firm surface.
- Build up gradually toward 30–60 minutes total per day by 3–4 months.
- Stop and try again later if baby cries; keep it enjoyable, not forced.
Always awake and supervised — never during sleep.
Use toys, a mirror, or your face to encourage lifting the head. If a flat surface upsets them, try your chest or a purpose-made tummy-time bolster.