Tummy time for premature babies: a gentle start
Tummy time is play on the belly while your baby is awake and supervised. It’s one of the simplest ways to support early motor development.
When to start
Follow corrected age and your care team’s advice. Many families begin with brief moments once their baby is home and settled.
Gentle ways to begin
- Start with a minute or two, a few times a day, when your baby is calm and alert.
- Try chest-to-chest tummy time lying back on the sofa — closeness makes it easier.
- Use a rolled towel under the chest for support if needed.
- Stop if your baby is upset; little and often beats long and stressful.
What you’re building
Tummy time strengthens the neck, shoulders and core — the foundations for rolling, sitting and reaching later on.
Want this on corrected age automatically? Try the calculator or get the app.