Tip 39: Promote Tummy Time and Movement for Regulation
Why This Matters
Movement is a critical part of infant development. Activities such as tummy time help strengthen muscles, support motor development, improve coordination, and prepare infants for future milestones such as rolling, crawling, and walking.
The Infant Mental Health Lens
Movement supports not only physical development but also emotional regulation and sensory integration. Through movement and exploration, infants learn about their bodies, their environment, and their ability to interact with the world around them.
What This Looks Like in Real Life
Caregivers provide supervised tummy time throughout the day, encourage reaching and grasping, and create safe opportunities for exploration. These experiences allow infants to build strength and confidence while interacting with caregivers.
Common Myths That Get in the Way
Some caregivers believe tummy time is only important for physical development. In reality, movement experiences also support cognitive development, sensory processing, attention, and emotional regulation.
What Caregivers and Professionals Can Do
Caregivers can incorporate short periods of tummy time into daily routines and participate in play that encourages movement. Professionals can educate families about developmental milestones and ways to make movement activities enjoyable and engaging.
Trauma-Informed and Equity Considerations
Some infants may initially resist tummy time or movement activities due to developmental differences, medical concerns, or sensory sensitivities. Supportive, individualized approaches help ensure all children can participate successfully.
Closing Reflection
Every movement, stretch, roll, and reach helps build the foundation for future learning, confidence, and healthy development.
