Introducing solid foods is an exciting milestone for both babies and parents. But before babies are ready to sit in a high chair and take their first bites, they need to build important muscles and coordination skills. One of the best ways to support this development is through regular tummy time.
Pediatric occupational therapist Brooke Boruff explains that tummy time does much more than strengthen a baby’s neck—it also helps prepare the body for feeding, balance, and movement.
Why Tummy Time Matters
Babies are born with limited muscle strength and gradually learn how to control their bodies through movement and play. Spending time on their tummy encourages babies to strengthen their neck, shoulders, back, and core muscles. These muscles are essential for sitting upright, reaching for food, and safely chewing and swallowing.
Consistent tummy time also helps babies feel more stable and confident as they grow.
Building Arm and Hand Strength
As babies spend more time on their tummy, they begin pushing up with their arms, turning their bodies, and reaching for toys. These movements strengthen the arms and hands, which later helps with:
· Holding spoons
· Picking up finger foods
· Bringing food to the mouth
· Developing hand-eye coordination
Simple floor play activities can make a big difference in preparing babies for independent feeding skills later on.
Supporting Oral Development
Strong neck and upper body muscles also support oral motor development. When babies lift and turn their heads during tummy time, they strengthen the muscles used for chewing and swallowing.
Exploring toys with their mouths is another natural way babies practice tongue movement and oral coordination before starting solids.
Keep Tummy Time Simple
Tummy time doesn’t need to be complicated. Short, consistent sessions throughout the day are often enough to help babies build strength over time.
For younger babies, tummy time can happen on a parent’s chest or across a support pillow. As babies grow, soft play mats and sensory toys can make floor play more fun and engaging.
Final Thoughts
Tummy time plays an important role in helping babies develop the strength, balance, and coordination needed for feeding success. By encouraging daily floor play early on, parents can help support both physical development and a smoother transition to solid foods later in infancy.