Hello experts.. my 3 months old daughter refuses to do tummy time.. she cries within a minute of putting her on her tummy.. she has good neck control while we make her sit on lap but when we put her on tummy she can only lift her head a bit but not able to lift her head with hands and chest support much.. please suggest.

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It’s common for some babies to initially dislike tummy time, especially if they aren’t used to it or find it difficult. Tummy time is important for building strength in your baby’s neck, shoulders, arms, and back muscles, but many babies need time to adjust. Here are some tips to help make tummy time more comfortable and enjoyable for your daughter:

1. Start Slow and Increase Gradually:

Begin with just a few minutes of tummy time several times a day, and gradually increase the duration as your baby gets stronger. If she’s fussy after a minute, try starting with shorter sessions and build up from there.

2. Use a Rolled Blanket or Tummy Time Pillow:

Place a small rolled-up blanket or a specially designed tummy time pillow under her chest to give her a little elevation and make it easier to lift her head and chest. This can help her feel more comfortable and encourage her to engage more.

3. Interactive Play:

Get down on the floor and interact with her during tummy time. Make funny faces, sing, or use toys like rattles or soft mirrors to distract her and make it fun.

You can also place toys slightly in front of her to motivate her to lift her head and chest to look at them.

4. Use Your Lap:

If she is more comfortable sitting on your lap, you can try placing her belly down across your thighs while you sit. This way, she can still practice lifting her head while feeling more secure.

5. Tummy Time on Your Chest:

Try placing your baby on your chest while you are lying down. Many babies find this position more comfortable, and it still helps them practice lifting their head.

6. Frequent, Short Sessions:

Instead of one long tummy time session, try multiple short ones throughout the day. Even a minute or two at a time helps strengthen her muscles.

7. Monitor Her Comfort:

If she consistently dislikes tummy time, check for any discomfort, such as gas or reflux, which might make the position uncomfortable for her.

8. Praise and Encourage:

Gently encourage her during tummy time and offer lots of praise for her efforts, even if she only lifts her head for a moment.

Since she already has good neck control while sitting on your lap, her strength is developing well. As her muscles grow, she’ll likely become more comfortable with tummy time. Keep trying regularly, and soon she’ll be able to lift her head and chest more easily. If you’re still concerned about her progress, discussing it with your pediatrician at the next check-up can give you more specific guidance.