It’s Tummy Time

Babies are like seeds: little bundles waiting for the right input so they can spring up and embrace their newly discovered world. How well they thrive depends on the quality of the input they receive.

Because humans are highly complex beings, they need much more than a little water, sunlight and Mother Nature to develop well. Their nervous system develops at a remarkable pace during the first years of life. One of the most important things we can do for our children’s nervous system is also one of the simplest.

Head movement stimulates the nerves

Brain development depends entirely on the stimulation the brain receives. Very soon after birth, lifting the head is at the top of the agenda. This head movement provides a tremendous amount of stimulation because it activates nerve receptors. These nerves send impulses to the brainstem, which is responsible for directing motor and cognitive development and learning.

Tummy-time exercises work the extensor muscles (back muscles) that run along the spine. These muscles need to be strong for sitting, crawling and eventually walking to develop. Reduced extensor strength delays motor development and its associated milestones.

Encourage a healthy head shape

Plagiocephaly (an abnormal head shape) has been associated with delayed developmental milestones and weak extensor tone. Tummy time plays an important role in encouraging a healthy head shape. When babies lie on their tummies on the floor, they encounter a new range of tactile stimuli on their face and other parts of the body. Toys and floor coverings made from different fabrics and textures help increase stimulation of the nervous system.

As your baby learns to master tummy time, they gain confidence and a sense of achievement. This has psychological benefits and also encourages further development as they try to roll, reach, grasp and pull.

Stress can sometimes occur during birth

At Wellbeing Chiropractic Amsterdam, we sometimes hear mothers say, “But my baby hates tummy time; all they do is cry.” This is one reason why it is essential to have your child examined as soon as possible after birth. Babies sometimes experience stress to their spine and skull during birth. This can make it uncomfortable, and sometimes even impossible, for them to move their head freely. No wonder a baby cries during tummy time: it hurts.

Chiropractors work to support proper movement of the spine and cranial bones so that tummy time can become an enjoyable part of the baby’s day.

It is important to note that this type of input does not only benefit newborns. Older babies and children can receive it through “superboy/supergirl exercises” on an exercise ball to increase extensor tone and stimulate the brain positively.

Place your little one on their tummy or on an exercise ball

Whenever you have the opportunity, place your little one on their tummy. Increase the duration and frequency as they become stronger and more confident. For older children, we recommend starting with 10 minutes of superman/supergirl exercises each day and challenging them to hold the position for progressively longer periods.

Healthy nervous-system function is essential in children, and these exercises are a simple and effective way to increase input to the brain. Give your little seed the very best opportunity to grow and develop so they can spring into action.