Tummy time, grasping and rolling
Home video
Head and neck control acquired through Tummy Time, grasping and rolling are all vital skills that your baby must be exposed to in order to begin developing their Fundamental Movement Skills.
- Doing tummy time multiple times every day during awake time from soon after birth helps your baby build neck, head and upper body strength to crawl and pull to stand when they are older. Babies must achieve head control before they are able to work on sitting or walking.
- Grasping is an important building block in the development of fine motor skills needed later in life.
- Rolling develops as your baby's muscles are strengthened during Tummy Time - it may be the first time your baby is able to move independently.
Teaching tips
Tummy Time Tips
- Start small and gradually increase the duration as your baby gets stronger.
- Choose times when your baby is alert and happy (avoid immediately after feeding)
- Make it fun and engaging:
- Engage with your baby, use their toys, mirrors, new locations, get down with them.
Grasping Tips
- Use a variety of objects differing in shapes, size, and feel!
- Encourage reaching and grasping by placing toys slightly out of reach, floor time and guide your baby.
Rolling Tips
- Create a safe environment where your baby can be engaged and comfortable.
- Provide guidance where required
- Back to tummy, tummy to back, and gradually provide them with independence
- Use toys and noise to encourage them
