Tummy Time Tips for Babies with Reflux
If the most common phrase in your house is “where's the burp cloth?!" then this one's for you. When babies spit up or have reflux, it can be exhausting to manage and it complicates things like tummy time. But tummy time is still an essential part of your baby's development, and there are ways to make it easier on both you and your baby.
Tummy Time and Spitting Up
If you suspect your baby might have reflux, consult your pediatrician. They can help determine the best plan of care and ensure that your baby's weight and nutrition needs are being met. Here's the good news: in most cases, if your baby is gaining weight well, you can continue with tummy time even when your baby is prone to spitting up. Usually, the amount that a baby spits up is only about 1-2 teaspoons (even though it looks like a lot more!) It might get messy, but the benefits are worth it.
Here are some practical tips to enhance your tummy time experience:
Take a 20-30 minute break between feeding and play.
To make tummy time more manageable, consider timing. Try giving your baby a 20-30 minute break between their feeding and tummy time. This gives their stomach a little time to settle. Don't forget to burp your baby before tummy time; it can help release any gas that might contribute to spitting up.
Practice right after waking up.
Try tummy time right after your baby wakes up but before their next feeding. Babies are often in a good mood after a nap and may be more receptive to tummy time.
Practice tummy time in short intervals.
Keep trying, even if it's just for a minute or two. Building tolerance for tummy time takes time. Be sure to have plenty of burp cloths on hand.
Take frequent rest breaks in side-lying position.
If your baby seems fussy during tummy time, there’s no need to push through tears. Take a break. Roll your baby into a side-lying position. This position is also developmentally beneficial and is usually tolerated well, even when tummy time becomes a struggle. Alternating between side-lying and tummy time can also help prepare your baby for rolling.
Try tummy time on inclined surfaces.
Experiment with inclined surfaces where your baby's head is slightly higher than their belly. You can use a wedge, a pillow, a rolled-up towel, a yoga ball, or even your chest. This can help reduce the discomfort associated with reflux during tummy time.
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P.S. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for skilled physical therapy intervention. While I am a physical therapist, I am not your child's physical therapist. If you have questions or concerns about your child's health and/or development, please contact your pediatrician.