Tummy Time Sensory Hacks

Moms like you always ask me about tummy time! Many babies don’t seem happy when they are on their tummies. It’s like they just don’t know the importance of tummy time, am I right? Here are some Tummy Time Sensory Hacks to use with your 3+-month-old babies!

My Number One Tummy Time Sensory Hack

For this sensory hack, you will add a tiny amount of water to a cookie sheet. Then, using a boppy pillow or blanket roll, place your baby facing the cookie sheet on their tummy. You can add rubber ducks, plastic links, or other colorful, engaging toys. ALWAYS SUPERVISE YOUR BABY AROUND WATER, EVEN IF IT IS JUST A FEW INCHES!

This will help babies who are working through the “swimming” reflex. They will be able to bring their arms in front of them instead of behind. The assistance of the boppy pillow will also help get their arms in front. Then, the water is a great motivator for the baby to actively bring the arms back in front of the body and push up through extended arms (typically between 4-6 months). 

More Ways to Make Tummy Time Fun

Here are a few other fun tummy time sensory hacks you can use for your baby’s tummy time:

• Use a tummy time water mat which has fun colors and visual aspects but also provides an unsteady surface to add in a balance component!
• Use textured sensory tiles on the floor to add visual interest and to encourage your baby to reach and pivot!
• Use these colored scarves on the floor under your baby. These add visual interest, texture, and novelty to your baby’s tummy time!

Tummy time is hard work for little ones because it engages so much of their core muscles. By using these sensory hacks, you can make it a mentally stimulating activity as well! This will likely make it more fun and less miserable for you and your baby! If your baby struggles with spitting up while doing tummy time, check out this blog post!