Disclaimer: this advice is general only and isn't specific to you and your child's needs. It's intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns please check in with you local health practitioner.
TUMMY TIME!
We all know it can be difficult to build tummy time exercises into your day so Chiro Karli of Nomad Chiro in Mosman has put together a few tips that might help!
Start doing tummy time as soon as you can after birth - ensure you're always with your baby whilst doing it. Start with 1-2minutes a few times a day and build to 10-15 minutes several times per day.
Why do we need to do Tummy Time?
It's important for vestibular system priming. This will help your baby orientate itself in space, remain balanced, feel safe whilst moving, coordinate hand and head movements; coordinate both sides of the body, reduce the likelihood of plagiocephaly (flat head) etc.
So Tummy Time is really important for development.
What if you baby hates tummy time?
It's still really important to do it - so the key is to find ways that will activate the vestibular system that your baby doesn't hate!
HERE ARE A FEW OPTIONS!
1) Leg climbs:
Sit and place your baby on your legs. Gently rock your legs side to side whilst holding on to your baby
- Alternative: Aeroplanes. Lie on you back and have your baby on your legs flying like an aeroplane :)
2) Having a tea with a friend? Place your baby on their tummy over your lap :)
3) Football holds
Hold baby across your arm, facing down. Be sure to do this on both sides.
4) Post nappy change!
After you've changed your baby's nappy, turn them on to their tummy, come down to their eye level infront of them and have a little chat!
Depending on their age you can always use some simple distraction methods like toys or a bell for them to focus on.
We hope this helps!
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NOMAD CHIROPRACTIC IN MOSMAN NSW HAS A PREGNANCY AND PAEDIATRIC FOCUS.
Book in online with your Mosman Chiropractors Lucy Bartlett, Karli Plowright and Sandy Ghobrial at www.nomadchiropractic.com.au
Located at: Suite 1, 563 Military Road Mosman NSW 2088 (rear entry -- find the cacti and you'll see our door!)
For More Paediatric focussed home exercises head to: https://www.nomadchiropractic.com.au/baby-exercises