Tummy time is perfect prep for sitting, crawling and standing
By now, your baby will be engaged in tummy time, and they will be used to lying in this position. Some babies do not take to lying on their stomachs at first, but after implementing tummy time little and often into their usual routine, it should become just a normal aspect of their day.
Tummy time is a great way of helping babies develop the muscles they need as they grow. Lying your baby on their tummy to play can support them in strengthening their core (sometimes this is referred to as the ‘trunk’), head, neck, arm and leg muscles. Tummy time can prepare your baby for big milestones later in their development such as standing, sitting, and crawling.[1]
Your baby has more control over their own body, and their own play
Currently, your baby will be making some movements during tummy time. You might have noticed them preparing to roll on some occasions and you may have observed them having a go at turning around. These actions may not always be smooth and will sometimes appear to be disjointed or jerky as your baby’s muscles are still developing.
Now that your baby has more control over their own body parts, they may direct more of their own play. This means that they may choose which toys they want to play with out of a selection provided, and they may move their body towards these.[2] These movements can include rocking, turning and reaching to grab.
They're also learning to navigate!
Your baby is also developing their body awareness, meaning that they understand where their body (and body parts) are in relation to objects and people in their environment. Having this understanding makes it easier for your baby to begin navigating their space – even before they are crawling or walking.[3]
You might see some tummy pivoting soon...
Your baby will be continuing to develop their muscles and body awareness and will start to develop their own interests when it comes to play. As this development continues, you may see your baby pivoting on their tummy during play, and even rolling from tummy to back.
References:
[1] HealthLink. (2021). Sensory and Motor Development, Ages 1 to 12 Months. Available: https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-topics/ue5465.
[2] Pathways Chicago. (2020). Tummy Time Abilities at 6 Months. Available: https://pathways.org/watch/tummy-time-abilities-at-6-months/.
[3] Brain Balance. (2021). Proprioception Explained. Available: https://www.brainbalancecenters.com/blog/proprioception-explained