Why I’m a True Believer in the Tummy Time!™ Method: A Personal Story

When I had my third baby, August, I thought I knew what to expect. After all I’d been through the newborn stage twice before and had been working with babies in their homes for almost 2 years! I was mentally prepared for the possibility that my baby could have a tongue-tie because of my past experiences, but the challenges he had post birth surprised me! 

While August was born with a tongue-tie that was really the least of our worries. He was born with a notable stridor, difficulty coordinating suck, swallow, and breathe, and a significant diastasis recti. I could hear him swallowing large amounts of air during each feeding. Luckily, he was able to sustain a latch and transfer adequate amounts of milk at each feeding.  He struggled with reflux, and I could see a difference in his nervous system regulation, he startled at even the slightest noise, noises that a typical newborn wouldn't even notice. I knew we needed to get to work right away! 

Years prior to his birth I had become certified in the Tummy time method (TTM) and had been spending my time learning more and practicing this technique, along with pre/post frenectomy therapies. Even with this background I was amazed at how quickly we started seeing changes after we implemented the Tummy Time!™ Method. Within just three days of a consistent routine, there was a remarkable difference. He was more regulated, his feeding improved, and he was more comfortable in his own body.  

Of course, getting into a routine wasn’t easy. As most moms with multiple kids know, those early postpartum weeks are chaotic and downright exhausting. My husband returned to work shortly after the birth, and I was solo parenting three little ones. There were some setbacks initially, but once we committed to the routine, it became second nature.

August did his best first thing in the morning, so we made it our ritual—straight to the floor after waking and a diaper change. My older kids loved joining in, helping their baby brother learn how to be strong on his belly. It was a learning curve for them to at first, they were still learning how to be calm and gentle with the baby. We made it fun, and that made all the difference.

One surprising thing? August loved naked tummy time. So, we did diaper changes on the floor and turned every one into a mini session. As the weather warmed up, we moved outside—dirt, grass, even sand at the beach became part of his sensory exploration.

But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Even with his great tolerance on his belly, August still struggled with upright head control. He’d rest his chin on his chest and lacked the muscle activation he needed for proper postural reflexes. When he was nearly five months old, I had the incredible opportunity to attend an advanced TTM training in Atlanta, Georgia, with Michelle Emanuel herself.

That class was a game-changer. Michelle worked with August and helped me fine-tune what we were already doing at home. One of her biggest recommendations? We needed to extend the time August was spending on his belly and focus on activating his postural righting reflexes.

We followed her guidance, and within a two weeks, something amazing happened—August began to demonstrate the Landau reflex, and his head control dramatically improved. 

The coolest part? As we moved along, we let August lead the way. We didn’t pressure him to sit. We didn’t prop him up. We just gave him time and space on the floor. And soon, he taught himself how to transition from his belly into a prop-sitting position. From there, he learned to sit independently—and most importantly, he could move in and out of that position on his own. Shortly after, he began crawling… and by 11 months, he was walking!

Tummy time isn’t just about motor development. For us, it was about nervous system regulation, feeding improvement, family connection, and resilience. One of the most meaningful outcomes for us has been the progress in feeding. August not only overcame his early coordination challenges, but we're still successfully breastfeeding at nearly 18 months postpartum—a milestone that feels even more special given the rocky start. It helped August thrive in ways I hadn’t seen with my other kids, and it gave me tools as a mom (and a provider!) to support his unique needs.

If you’re a tired mama wondering how to fit tummy time into your day—or if you’ve been told your baby “will grow out of it”—please know you’re not alone. You don’t have to do it perfectly. But if you can find a rhythm that works for your family, the benefits are truly powerful.

Infant Feeding Challenges: When to Seek Help.

Many moms (including myself) will tell you that feeding their baby didn’t come as easily as they had expected. For many the journey of feeding their baby at the breast or bottle is full of ups and downs. It’s important to recognize when common challenges require a little extra support.

Some Common Feeding Challenges:

There are a number of feeding challenges that may arise, however some common concerns to look out for are: painful latching, which can cause significant discomfort and may indicate issues such as improper latch or positioning. Clicking sounds during feeding may suggest problems with tongue mobility. Gulping or choking during feeds often signals poor coordination in swallowing. Gassiness or frequent spit-up can result from air intake during feeding or digestive sensitivities. Lastly, suspected oral ties, such as tongue-tie or lip-tie, can further complicate feeding by restricting tongue movement and preventing an effective latch. These challenges require prompt assessment and intervention to support both the parent and baby.

Breastfeeding and Bottle Feeding

Breastfeeding and bottle feeding each come with their unique challenges, and many families find themselves navigating both methods. Here’s how to address common concerns:

Transitioning Between Breast and Bottle

Switching between the breast and a bottle can sometimes cause flow preferences for your baby, we also want to choose pacifiers and bottles that closely mimic the skills use for breastfeeding.

To ease the transition:

• Use a bottle nipple that has a flow similar to your breast.

• Practice paced bottle feeding, allowing baby to suck on an empty nipple initially, mimicking the stimulation of a letdown at the breast.

• Use an elevated side-lying position which is a similar position to feeding at the breast.

Bottle Feeding Challenges

For exclusively bottle-fed babies, challenges like gassiness or inefficient sucking can happen. Supportive techniques include:

• Use a bottle nipple size and flow rate that match oral motor abilities.

• Ensuring the bottle nipple shape matches your baby’s oral motor skills and abilities.

• Encouraging pauses (paced) during feeding to mimic the natural rhythm that would occur at the breast.

Signs It’s Time to Seek Help

It can be so difficult to know what to expect and what’s “normal”, especially if you are a new mom. Here are some examples of when you should seek help from an IBCLC. If you’re in pain—any pain at all—don’t ignore it. Pain during breastfeeding is not normal and requires attention. Additionally, if your baby isn’t gaining weight, seems uncomfortable, or is showing signs of pain, this is a clear signal to seek support. Feeding sessions that take excessively long or leave your baby still hungry can indicate an issue; efficient feeds typically last 20-30 minutes. If your baby does not tolerate tummy time activities, it may be linked to underlying feeding or postural concerns. Finally, if you’re feeling overwhelmed or discouraged, reaching out for professional help can provide the guidance and reassurance you need. So, what if you brought up your concerns to your health care provider and you were ignored?? Unfortunately, it happens all to often. Listen to your mama gut and reach out to a lactation professional, you do not need a doctor’s referral.

So how can an OT/IBCLC help?

When lactation and occupational therapy come together, the result is a comprehensive, whole-body approach to addressing feeding challenges. This is an integrative model that recognizes feeding isn’t just about the mouth-it involves the entire body, nervous system, and the parent-baby relationship. What to expect:

• Evaluation of your baby’s latch and feeding behavior.

• Tips for increasing or managing milk supply.

• Support in achieving your breastfeeding goals—whether exclusively breastfeeding, combination feeding, or transitioning to bottles.

• Identifying and addressing muscle imbalances or exaggerated reflexes affecting feeding.

• Helping your baby develop the strength and coordination needed for effective latching and sucking.

• Creating a plan that integrates tummy time and feeding strategies to promote overall development.

What to expect: oral motor exercises to improve tongue function and mobility, strategies to optimize feeding posture and balance tension, tummy time routines integrated with feeding sessions to build strength and coordination. Emotional support and practical advice to meet your feeding goals.

Feeding your baby is a skill—for both you and your baby—and it’s okay to need support along the way. Seeking help early can make a world of difference in your feeding journey. Whether breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or a combination of both, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Reach out to me at Nourishing Developement if you have any questions or concerns about your little one. Want to know if you visits are covered by insurance? Check you coverage here at the Lactation Network.

The Hidden Connection Between Tummy Time and Feeding Success

When you think of tummy time you may be envisioning your baby lying on their belly, working hard to lift their head, and strengthening their muscles. While most people recognize tummy time as essential for motor development, the impact of tummy time goes far beyond preparing your baby to roll, crawl, or walk. Did you know that tummy time can also play a significant role in feeding success? Let’s explore the hidden connection between these two critical aspects of infant development.

What’s the big deal about tummy time?

Tummy time is a powerful activity that promotes a baby’s overall development. Spending time on their tummy helps babies strengthen the muscles in their neck, shoulders, back, and core. This muscle development is foundational for achieving motor milestones, such as rolling over, sitting up, and eventually crawling. But beyond physical strength, tummy time also promotes sensory integration, coordination, and postural control—and maybe you guessed it….all directly influence feeding abilities.

So what is the link between tummy time and infant feeding skills?

1. Strengthening Oral Motor Skills

Effective feeding requires coordinated oral motor skills. Whether your baby is breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or transitioning to solids, the muscles of the jaw, tongue, and lips must work together seamlessly. Tummy time indirectly supports these muscles by strengthening the neck and upper body, creating a stable foundation for oral motor function. For example:

• Head Control: Tummy time helps babies develop the neck and upper body strength necessary for steady head control. This stability ensures proper positioning and alignment during feeding, leading to a stronger latch, improved milk transfer, and a more comfortable feeding experience for both baby and parent.

• Jaw and Tongue Movement: The push-and-pull motions during tummy time stimulate the development of the jaw and tongue muscles, which are crucial for sucking, swallowing, and chewing.

2. Enhancing Nervous System Regulation

Babies process a lot of sensory information while feeding—the feel of a nipple or spoon, the taste of milk or food, and even the positioning of their body. Tummy time helps babies integrate sensory input by promoting body awareness and calming the nervous system. A well regulated nervous system is essential for better feedings.

3. Improving Postural Control

Feeding is not just about the mouth—it’s a full-body activity. Babies need postural stability to remain comfortable and effective while feeding. Tummy time encourages the development of core strength and head control, making it easier for babies to maintain a stable position during feeding sessions. This stability is especially important as babies transition to sitting upright for bottle-feeding or starting solids.

4. Supporting Tongue-Tie Rehabilitation

For babies with tongue-tie or other oral restrictions, tummy time can be an invaluable part of therapy. It supports the whole-body strength and coordination needed for successful feeding and complements the exercises often prescribed for tongue-tie rehabilitation.

Making Tummy Time Fun and Effective

Are you and your baby struggling with tummy time, don’t worry! Here are some tips to make it a more enjoyable experience:

• Start Small: Begin with short sessions and follow your baby’s lead. Keep it positive!

• Engage with Toys: Use toys or a mirror to encourage your baby to lift their head and explore, sometimes the best toy is your smiling face!

• Get on Their Level: Lie down face-to-face with your baby to provide comfort and encouragement.

Remember, consistency is key. Aim for multiple short sessions throughout the day to maximize the benefits of tummy time.

A Holistic Approach to Feeding Success

Tummy time is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to feeding success. A holistic approach—considering your baby’s motor development, oral function, and overall health—is essential. If you have concerns about feeding difficulties or suspect a tongue-tie, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional support.

As an occupational therapist and IBCLC specializing in infant development, I’m here to help you and your baby thrive. Together, we can create a personalized plan to support your little one’s feeding journey, starting with the basics like tummy time.

Tummy time isn’t just about rolling, crawling, or building muscle—it’s a foundational activity that sets the stage for feeding success. By incorporating tummy time into your baby’s daily routine, you’re supporting their physical, sensory, and oral development. So, grab a quilt, roll your baby into tummy time, and watch as they grow stronger with each little session!

Need help or have questions? Contact me at Nourishing Development for expert guidance and support.

Why therapy before a tongue-tie release is important for your baby’s success

A tongue-tie release or frenectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing tissue from under the tongue, this tissue is known as a frenulum. This frenulum under the tongue can impede the tongues movement, causing what people often refer to as a “tongue-tie”. A tongue-tie can cause feeding issues, speech challenges, and even problems with breathing and sleeping as they grow. While a tongue-tie release (frenectomy) may be one piece of the puzzle, many parents don’t realize that pre-release therapy is crucial for achieving optimal results.

What Is Pre-release Therapy?

Pre-release therapy incorporates specialized techniques designed to prepare your baby’s mouth, tongue, and body for the tongue-tie release “frenectomy”. It involves working on oral motor skills, body tension, reflexes, and sensory issues that might make feeding or healing after the procedure more difficult. Think of it like stretching before a big workout—your baby’s body needs to be ready for the change the tongue-tie release “frenectomy” will bring.

A tongue-tie release only changes the structure of the mouth; it doesn’t change the altered movement patterns your baby has been using since before birth. That’s why the work you put in with your baby before the release is so important. It’s this effort that retrains the muscles and brain to allow your baby’s new found range of motion after a tongue-tie release.

Why Is It Important?

1. Improves Muscle Readiness
   A tight frenulum can cause the tongue and other muscles in your baby’s mouth to compensate for the restriction. Pre- release therapy helps strengthen and prepare these muscles, so they’re ready to work properly after the release.

2. Balances Tension in the Body
   Babies with a tongue-tie often have tension throughout their bodies, especially in their necks, jaws, and shoulders. Pre- release therapy helps balance this tension, which can improve feeding, comfort, and mobility.

3. Supports Feeding Success
   A tongue-tie can make breastfeeding or bottle-feeding challenging. Therapy before the procedure helps your baby practice better sucking, swallowing, and breathing patterns, making feeding easier both before and after the tongue-tie release.

4. Speeds Up Recovery
   When your baby’s mouth and body are prepared, they’re likely to recover faster and adapt more easily after the procedure. Pre-release therapy can also reduce the risk of scar tissue or needing a revision (second tongue-tie release).

What Happens in Pre-release Therapy?

Pre-release therapy is led by a specialist trained in infant feeding and oral-motor development, such as an occupational therapist, speech therapist and/or an advanced trained international board certified lactation consultant (IBCLC). Pre-release therapy should include exercises, like tummy time, gentle stretches, oral motor exercises, and neuromuscular re-education, to help your baby get ready. These activities are simple, but they can make a big difference in your baby’s success.

The Bottom Line

While a tongue-tie release can be life-changing for your baby, pre-release therapy ensures that the procedure is as effective and smooth as possible. It’s a crucial step in giving your baby the tools they need for better feeding, comfort, and overall development. If you’re considering a tongue-tire release for your baby, an evaluation with an infant feeding specialist should be your first stop, don’t rush to release! If you’re considering a tongue-tie release for your baby or need support with feeding challenges, I’m here to help. Reach out today to learn how we can work together to prepare your baby for success and give you peace of mind.