Key points:
- Babies develop head control and muscle tone during their first few months of life.
- Tummy time is the most recommended activity to help babies develop neck, head, and upper body muscles.
- Infants may hold their heads up for a few seconds during tummy time, and their arms may frequently be flexed and in tight fists.
- Talking to and entertaining babies during tummy time can help them develop language skills while boosting muscle development.
After the first month, your baby will start turning their head and lifting it for a few seconds. They may raise their head slightly when laying on their back or might even start to support and control the wobbling of their head for short periods of time.
Even though their neck is not strong enough to hold their head when pulled to a sitting position, they are getting stronger by the day. During these months you’ll see that their arms will be frequently flexed, and they’ll keep their hands in tight fists, which proves their muscles are getting toned. You will also see how the primitive reflexes start to disappear and more complex skills start to emerge.
One of the most recommended ways to help your child accomplish head control is with tummy time. This activity will help them develop their neck, head, and upper body muscles, because this position will make them lift their head. They might even hold it up for a little while. Here are some tummy time tips:
- Lie your baby on your lap or over your chest, so they can see your face. They will feel close to you and will enjoy their tummy time even more.
- Place some toys in front of them so they are entertained. Maybe they’ll make a bigger effort to hold the position and lift their head.
- Talk to them, make funny faces and gestures while they’re on top of you. This way they can have longer periods of tummy time while you also foster language skills.
- Place a small, rolled towel under their arms so they feel more comfortable and it’s easier for them to hold this position.
Your baby will develop their muscles all by themselves, but by following these tips you can boost their development while spending time together. Change things up a bit, work on their muscles together!
Enjoy every second of it; your little one is growing up so fast!
