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.
