New Year, New Term: Why Tummy Time Matters More Than You Think
As we begin a fresh new term at Baby College, we are starting with one of the most important foundations of early development: tummy time.
It may look simple, but tummy time plays a powerful role in helping babies grow strong, confident and curious about the world around them. Whether you are brand new to baby classes or returning after Christmas, this is the perfect moment to revisit why a little time on their tummy each day makes such a big difference.
What is tummy time?
Tummy time is when your baby spends short periods awake and supervised lying on their front. This position encourages them to lift, turn and eventually push up through their arms, laying the groundwork for later movement and coordination.
At Baby College, tummy time is woven gently into our baby classes through songs, toys, visual tracking and playful interaction, so it feels enjoyable rather than effortful for both babies and parents.
How tummy time supports physical development
From a scientific perspective, tummy time helps babies to strengthen key muscle groups, including the neck, shoulders and core. These muscles are essential for future milestones such as rolling, sitting, crawling and eventually walking.
Regular tummy time also supports postural control and balance, helping babies learn how to stabilise their bodies against gravity. This early strength and coordination can make later movement patterns feel easier and more confident.
Tummy time and brain development
Movement and brain development are closely linked in the first year of life. When babies push up, turn their heads or reach forward during tummy time, they are building neural connections between the brain and body.
Tummy time also supports visual development. Lifting the head allows babies to practise focusing, tracking objects and shifting their gaze between near and far, all of which are important foundations for later learning.
A chance to connect and communicate
Tummy time is not just about muscles. It is also a wonderful opportunity for connection. When you get down at your baby’s level, talk, sing or smile, you are supporting early communication, attention and social development.
Babies learn best through relationships, and those shared moments of eye contact, voice and play are incredibly valuable.
What if my baby doesn’t enjoy tummy time yet?
Many babies find tummy time challenging at first, and that is completely normal. Starting with very short bursts, little and often, can help. Using toys, mirrors or a friendly face can make it more engaging, and doing tummy time together in a supportive group setting can boost confidence for parents too.
In Baby College classes, our teachers guide families with practical ideas and reassurance, helping each baby progress at their own pace.
Join us this term
Our new term is now booking, and places do fill quickly at this time of year. If you are looking for baby classes near you that are supportive, evidence-informed and genuinely enjoyable, Baby College offers a calm, friendly environment where babies and parents can learn and grow together.
Find your local Baby College baby classes here:
👉 https://www.babycollege.co.uk/find-a-class
We would love to welcome you and your baby this term. 💛
. According to Kathryn Hesketh, UCL, “In infants, tummy time when awake is particularly important for development” (ref)
