#asktheexpert hello mam, our 5.5 month baby is doing his tummy time for 5-10 mins a time for 4-5 times a day. not doing it at a stretch..also he is only able to roll over only with some assistance and not by himself, anything to worry ?

1 Answer

POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 5 m old boy9 months ago

A. It's great that your 5.5-month-old baby is doing tummy time for 5 to 10 minutes several times a day! Tummy time is essential for building muscle strength and promoting motor skills such as rolling and crawling. It's completely normal for babies at this age to not be able to do tummy time for long stretches at once, as their muscles are still developing. Here are some things to keep in mind: 1. Frequency Over Duration: It's better to focus on tummy time multiple times a day rather than for long periods. You’re doing well by spreading it out over 4 to 5 times a day. Each session helps strengthen neck, back, and shoulder muscles, which is essential for developing head control and future movements like crawling and sitting. 2. Encouraging Tummy Time: If your baby gets frustrated, try engaging him with toys or your face to keep him interested. You can also try tummy time on a soft surface like a blanket to make it more comfortable for him. 3. Supporting Motor Skills: Besides tummy time, you can encourage motor skill development through activities like gently rolling him from back to tummy and offering toys just out of reach to encourage reaching and turning. 4. Pacing Progress: Every baby progresses at their own pace. If he's not rolling over or crawling yet, it's completely normal at this stage. Some babies start these milestones a little later. If you're concerned or notice that your baby is not achieving certain milestones, it’s always a good idea to discuss it with your pediatrician for reassurance and guidance. Keep up the great work!