Tummy time is the time an awake baby spends lying on their stomach while being directly supervised by an adult. It can begin from birth with short, comfortable positions—such as lying on a parent’s chest—and gradually progress to tummy time on a firm floor surface.
For newborns, tummy time may last only a few seconds or minutes at first. The aim is not to force a long session, but to offer several gentle opportunities throughout the day while following the baby’s cues.
What is tummy time?
Tummy time means placing a baby in a tummy-down position while they are:
- awake,
- alert,
- directly supervised,
- on a safe and stable surface.
This position gives babies opportunities to practise lifting and turning their head while gradually strengthening the muscles of the neck, shoulders, back and upper body. These muscles later contribute to movement skills such as rolling, sitting and crawling.
Tummy time does not always mean lying flat on the floor. For a newborn, it can also happen:
- on a parent’s chest,
- across a parent’s lap,
- in a supported tummy-down carry,
- on a firm play mat,
- with a small rolled towel beneath the upper chest when appropriate and closely supervised.
The most suitable position is one in which the baby can breathe freely, move their head and remain comfortable while an adult stays close.
Why is tummy time important for newborns?
Newborns spend a great deal of time lying on their backs, particularly because back sleeping is recommended for safer sleep. Supervised tummy time during awake periods gives them a different position from which to move and observe their surroundings.
Regular tummy time can support:
- neck and upper-body strength,
- head control,
- movement of the arms and shoulders,
- preparation for later motor skills,
- opportunities to look at the environment from another angle,
- reduced pressure on the back of the head during awake time.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends tummy time as part of awake play while continuing to place babies on their backs for every sleep.
Tummy time should not be treated as an exercise that a baby must perform perfectly. A newborn may simply turn their head to one side, briefly attempt to lift it or rest against the parent’s chest. These small movements are part of the experience.
When can tummy time begin?
Tummy time can begin from birth, provided the baby is medically well, awake and directly supervised.
One of the gentlest ways to begin is to place the baby tummy-down on a parent’s chest while the parent is awake and reclined in a secure position. As the baby becomes more comfortable, tummy time can gradually move to a firm surface on the floor.
A simple progression might be:
- tummy-down cuddles on a parent’s chest,
- brief tummy time across the parent’s lap,
- short sessions on a firm play mat,
- slightly longer floor sessions as the baby becomes stronger.
You do not need to wait until the baby reaches a particular age or can already hold their head up.
When should parents ask for individual advice?
Speak with a paediatrician, family doctor, physiotherapist or another qualified healthcare professional before beginning or adapting tummy time when a baby:
- was born prematurely,
- has a medical condition affecting movement or breathing,
- recently had surgery,
- has been given specific positioning instructions,
- appears to experience persistent pain,
- has significant feeding or reflux difficulties,
- strongly favours turning their head to only one side.
General guidance cannot replace recommendations based on an individual baby’s medical needs.
How long should a newborn spend on their tummy?
Begin with very short sessions and build gradually.
For a newborn, tummy time may initially last:
- a few seconds,
- approximately one minute,
- only as long as the baby remains calm and comfortable.
Several brief attempts across the day are often easier than one long session.
The American Academy of Pediatrics advises gradually working toward approximately 15–30 minutes of tummy time across the day by around seven weeks, rather than expecting the baby to complete that time in one session.
The World Health Organization provides a broader guideline for non-mobile infants of at least 30 minutes of tummy time spread throughout the day while awake. This is a cumulative daily amount and not a recommendation to leave a newborn on their tummy for 30 continuous minutes.
A realistic approach for the first weeks
You might try:
- 30 seconds after one nappy change,
- one minute on your chest,
- another short attempt on a play mat,
- a few seconds before a feed when the baby is calm,
- one brief session with your face or a card in front of the baby.
What matters most is gradual practice and a positive experience—not reaching an exact number every day.
What is the best time for tummy time?
Choose a moment when your baby is:
- awake,
- calm,
- alert,
- not very hungry,
- not overtired,
- not immediately after a full feed.
Many parents find tummy time easier:
- after a nappy change,
- after waking from a nap,
- before feeding,
- during calm floor play,
- while resting on a parent’s chest.
Avoid placing the baby flat on their tummy immediately after feeding, as pressure on the abdomen may feel uncomfortable and may increase spitting up.
If the baby becomes sleepy, move them to a safe sleep space and place them on their back.
What if a newborn hates tummy time?
Many newborns initially protest during tummy time. The position requires effort, and the baby may not yet have enough strength to lift their head and look around comfortably.
Crying does not necessarily mean that tummy time must be abandoned, but it does mean the activity should be adapted. The aim is not to leave the baby distressed in the position.
Try:
- making the session shorter,
- changing the position,
- bringing your face closer,
- using tummy time on your chest,
- placing the baby across your lap,
- supporting the upper chest,
- trying at another time of day,
- using one simple visual object,
- stopping before frustration becomes intense.
A session lasting ten calm seconds can be more useful than several minutes of distress.
Tummy time is only one part of gentle newborn play. For other calm options, explore these 10 simple activities for babies from birth to two months.
Start before the baby begins crying
It may help to finish the session while your baby is still reasonably calm. This prevents tummy time from repeatedly becoming associated with exhaustion and frustration.
Watch for early signs that the baby has had enough:
- lowering the face and struggling to turn it,
- repeated fussing,
- stiffening the body,
- arching,
- frantic arm or leg movements,
- turning away,
- becoming unusually still,
- crying.
Pick the baby up, comfort them and try again later.
Which tummy-time positions can parents try?
Different positions reduce the amount of effort required and allow tummy time to be introduced gradually.
1. Tummy time on a parent’s chest
Recline comfortably while remaining fully awake. Place the baby tummy-down against your chest, supporting them securely.
Talk softly or move your face slightly so the baby has something familiar to observe.
This position can be especially suitable during the newborn stage because:
- the baby feels close to the caregiver,
- the surface is gently angled,
- the baby can hear the caregiver’s voice and heartbeat,
- lifting the head may require less effort than lying flat.
The NHS recommends chest-to-chest tummy time as one way to begin from birth, provided the adult is wide awake and unlikely to fall asleep.
2. Tummy time across your lap
Sit securely and place the baby tummy-down across your thighs.
Support their head and shoulders as needed. You can gently rub their back or speak from the side.
This position can work well when:
- the baby dislikes lying flat,
- you want a very brief session,
- the baby is more relaxed with close body contact,
- floor time is not convenient.
Make sure the baby’s nose and mouth remain unobstructed.
3. Tummy time on a firm play mat
Place your awake baby tummy-down on a firm, flat play mat on the floor.
Stay at the baby’s level and position your face in front of them. A firm surface provides more effective support for pushing and movement than a deep mattress, sofa or soft cushion.
You can place the baby’s arms gently near the front of the shoulders, but do not force them into a rigid position.
4. Supported tummy time with a rolled towel
A small, firmly rolled towel may be placed beneath the baby’s upper chest, with the arms positioned forward, to create a slight incline.
The towel must:
- remain below the chest rather than beneath the neck,
- not obstruct breathing,
- be used only while the baby is awake,
- be used with continuous adult supervision,
- be removed immediately after the activity.
This position may help some babies lift their head more comfortably. It may not be appropriate for every baby, so seek professional advice when you are uncertain.
5. Tummy-down carry
Hold the baby securely along your forearm with their tummy facing downward and their head supported.
This is sometimes called a football hold or tummy-down carry. Although it differs from floor-based tummy time, it introduces the baby to a prone position and allows them to practise small head movements.
6. Side-lying as a temporary alternative
Side-lying is not a complete replacement for tummy time, but it can provide another position for babies who find tummy-down play difficult.
Place the awake baby on their side on a firm surface while remaining beside them. Support their back if needed and position their hands where they can see them.
Continue introducing brief tummy-down positions alongside side-lying as the baby becomes more comfortable.
How can parents make tummy time easier?
Get down to the baby’s level
A newborn may find the floor less frustrating when they can see a familiar face.
Lie in front of the baby and:
- talk softly,
- smile,
- imitate their expressions,
- sing,
- place your hand gently against their feet,
- pause and allow them to respond.
Your face may be more engaging than any toy.
Use a firm surface
A very soft bed or thick cushion makes it more difficult for the baby to push against the surface. A firm mat on the floor usually gives the body better support.
Keep the environment simple
Newborns do not need music, several toys and moving objects at the same time.
Try one experience:
- your face,
- one high-contrast card,
- one simple mirror,
- a quiet voice.
Too many objects can make it more difficult for the baby to focus.
Use familiar routines
Linking tummy time to an existing routine can make it easier to remember.
For example:
- after daytime nappy changes,
- after waking,
- before selected feeds,
- during morning floor play.
Do not worry when a session is missed. Tummy time should fit around the baby’s feeding, sleep and comfort needs.
Change positions before giving up
A baby who cries on the floor may be comfortable on a parent’s chest or lap.
“Tummy time” describes the tummy-down position, not one particular setup.
How can high-contrast cards make tummy time more engaging?
High-contrast cards can provide a clear visual point of interest during tummy time.
For more information about distance, timing and how many images to present, read our guide on using high-contrast cards with a newborn.
Young babies often find strong black-and-white patterns easier to notice than detailed illustrations in similar colours. A card placed in front of the baby can give them something simple to look toward while practising lifting or turning their head.
How to position a card during tummy time
- Place your baby tummy-down on a firm surface.
- Stay beside them and supervise continuously.
- Position one card in front of their face.
- Keep it at a comfortable close viewing distance.
- Hold it still at first.
- Move it only slightly after the baby notices it.
- Stop when the baby looks away or becomes tired.
The card should be:
- upright,
- stable,
- outside the baby’s mouth,
- unable to fall onto their face,
- used only during awake, supervised play.
Using Owloo High-Contrast Sensory Cards
The Owloo High-Contrast Sensory Cards for 0–2 Months feature bold black-and-white patterns created for simple early visual observation.
During tummy time, you can use them to:
- provide one clear object at eye level,
- alternate between the card and your face,
- encourage a small head turn from the centre,
- create a calm visual focus,
- add variety to short sessions.
Begin with one simple card. There is no need to display the full set.
High-contrast cards may make tummy time more interesting for some babies, but they cannot guarantee that a baby will lift their head for longer or stop crying. The caregiver’s presence, timing and the baby’s comfort remain more important than the visual material.
What other tummy-time activities can parents try?
Face-to-face tummy time
Lie directly in front of your baby and speak slowly. Pause after making a sound or expression and watch for a response.
Mirror observation
Place a securely positioned, unbreakable baby mirror in front of the baby. They will not yet recognise themselves, but may notice the reflected face and movement.
Gentle sound from one side
Speak or make a quiet sound slightly to one side. Give the baby time to turn or move their eyes toward it.
Do not make loud sounds close to the ears.
Hand beneath the feet
Place the palm of your hand gently against the soles of the baby’s feet. The contact may give them something against which to push, but do not force the legs forward.
Parent narration
Describe the moment:
“You are lifting your head.”
“I am right here.”
“You can see the black-and-white card.”
The baby does not understand the words yet, but your voice adds familiarity and connection.
Should a newborn do tummy time after every feed?
Not necessarily.
Some babies are comfortable with tummy time after burping and settling, while others spit up or become uncomfortable when pressure is placed on the abdomen.
Rather than linking tummy time strictly to feeding, choose moments when the baby appears comfortable. After a full feed, allow time for digestion and keep the baby upright when needed.
Babies with reflux may still be able to practise modified tummy-time positions, such as lying on a parent’s chest. Ask a healthcare professional for individual advice when reflux causes significant discomfort, poor feeding or concerns about growth.
Is tummy time safe for sleep?
No. Tummy time is only for awake, supervised activity.
For every sleep, place the baby:
- on their back,
- on a firm, flat sleep surface,
- in an appropriate cot, crib or bassinet,
- without loose blankets, pillows, toys or cards.
If a baby falls asleep during tummy time, move them to their safe sleep space and place them on their back. CDC and AAP guidance clearly distinguish supervised tummy play from back sleeping.
Never allow a caregiver to fall asleep with a baby lying on their chest.
Can tummy time help prevent a flat head?
Supervised tummy time reduces the amount of awake time a baby spends with pressure on the back of the head. It can therefore be one part of a broader approach to supporting varied head positioning.
Other helpful practices may include:
- changing the direction the baby faces in the cot,
- alternating feeding and carrying positions,
- limiting unnecessary time in car seats or reclined equipment while at home,
- encouraging the baby to look toward both sides,
- carrying the baby in different positions.
Tummy time cannot treat every head-shape concern. Speak with a healthcare professional when:
- the baby strongly prefers one side,
- head movement appears limited,
- flattening is noticeable or increasing,
- the head seems tilted,
- you have concerns about the neck or skull shape.
When should tummy time stop?
There is no single age at which tummy time must stop.
Continue offering supervised tummy-down play while your baby benefits from it. As babies learn to:
- roll independently,
- push onto their arms,
- pivot,
- reach for toys,
- move into and out of the tummy-down position,
- begin crawling,
they naturally create more of their own tummy time.
At that stage, you may no longer need to schedule separate sessions. Floor play in different positions can continue as part of everyday movement.
Do not hold a baby in the tummy-down position when they can roll out of it independently. Allow them to practise moving between positions on a safe floor surface.
When should tummy time be stopped during a session?
End or pause the session when the baby:
- becomes sleepy,
- cannot keep their nose and mouth clear,
- has difficulty breathing,
- appears to be in pain,
- becomes increasingly distressed,
- vomits rather than simply spitting up,
- changes colour,
- becomes unusually floppy or unresponsive.
Seek urgent medical help for breathing difficulty, blue or grey skin, unusual unresponsiveness or any symptom that causes immediate concern.
For ordinary fussing, pick the baby up, comfort them and try a shorter or easier position later.
When should parents seek professional advice?
Contact a healthcare professional if your baby:
- consistently turns their head in only one direction,
- appears unable to turn their head to both sides,
- seems unusually stiff or floppy,
- moves one side of the body much less than the other,
- does not begin lifting their head during tummy time by around two months,
- appears to be in pain in tummy-down positions,
- has feeding or breathing problems,
- loses a movement skill they previously showed,
- causes you concern for any other reason.
By around two months, holding the head up briefly during tummy time is among the movement milestones many babies begin to show, although development varies.
Developmental milestones are general guides, not tools for diagnosing an individual baby.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is tummy time for a newborn?
Tummy time is a period when an awake baby lies on their stomach while being directly supervised. It can take place on a caregiver’s chest, across the lap or on a firm floor surface.
When should tummy time start?
Tummy time can begin from birth with short, comfortable positions, provided the baby is awake, medically well and supervised.
How long should the first tummy-time session be?
The first session may last only a few seconds or approximately one minute. Stop when the baby becomes tired or distressed and try again later.
How many times a day should a newborn do tummy time?
Several short sessions spread throughout the day are generally more manageable than one long session. The exact number depends on the baby’s comfort and daily routine.
Can tummy time happen on a parent’s chest?
Yes. Chest-to-chest tummy time is a gentle way to begin, provided the adult is fully awake, securely positioned and directly supervising the baby.
Does tummy time have to happen on the floor?
No. It can also happen on a caregiver’s chest, across the lap or in a supported tummy-down carry. Floor-based tummy time can be introduced gradually.
What should I do if my newborn cries immediately?
Try a shorter session or a different position. Bring your face closer, use chest-to-chest tummy time or try again when the baby is calmer. Do not leave the baby crying in the position to reach a time target.
Can I use a pillow for tummy time?
Avoid ordinary pillows and very soft surfaces. A small rolled towel beneath the upper chest may sometimes be used during direct supervision, but it must not obstruct the baby’s face or breathing.
Can I use high-contrast cards during tummy time?
Yes. Place one secure card at eye level in front of the baby. Keep it outside their mouth and remove it when the activity ends.
How far away should a tummy-time card be?
Place it within the baby’s comfortable close viewing range, often approximately 20–30 cm from the face, and adjust according to where the baby appears to focus.
Is it normal for a newborn to dislike tummy time?
Yes. Many newborns find the position difficult initially. Begin with easy positions, use very short sessions and gradually increase the duration.
Can tummy time be done after feeding?
It may be uncomfortable immediately after a full feed. Wait until the baby has burped and settled, or choose another time if they frequently spit up.
Should a baby sleep on their tummy after tummy time?
No. Babies should be placed on their backs for every sleep. Tummy time is only for awake and directly supervised activity.
When does scheduled tummy time become unnecessary?
As babies begin rolling, moving into the tummy-down position and exploring the floor independently, they naturally create their own tummy time. There is no fixed age at which it must end.
Conclusion
Tummy time can begin from birth, but it does not need to begin with long sessions on the floor.
Start with a few calm moments on your chest or lap. Gradually introduce a firm play surface, stay close and use your face, voice or one simple high-contrast card to create a point of interest.
Some days your baby may tolerate several minutes. On other days, only a few seconds may feel comfortable. Both can be part of normal early practice.
Start small. Stay close. Build gradually—and always follow your baby’s lead.
To see how tummy time relates to early movement, vision and communication, continue with our overview of newborn development from birth to two months.
Sources and further reading
-
American Academy of Pediatrics — Back to Sleep, Tummy to Play
Guidance on starting tummy time, gradually increasing daily practice and continuing to place babies on their backs for sleep. -
CDC — Milestones by 2 Months
Early movement milestones and guidance for supervised tummy time with toys positioned at eye level. -
NHS — Baby Moves
Practical information about beginning tummy time from birth and progressing from a parent’s chest to the floor. -
World Health Organization — Guidelines on Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour and Sleep for Children Under 5
Physical-activity recommendations for infants, including tummy time spread across the day for babies who are not yet mobile. -
American Academy of Pediatrics — A Parent’s Guide to Safe Sleep
Safe-sleep guidance and recommendations for gradually increasing supervised tummy time during awake periods.
