Mercedes Aguirre Valenzuela

1. It Prevents Postural Asymmetry It is incredibly common for young babies to lean, tilt, or tip to one side during floor play. Tummy time allows parents and PTs to spot these minor asymmetries early. Facilitating midline alignment—helping your baby find their true center—ensures balanced, equal muscle development on both sides of the body. 2. It Activates the Extended Arm Transition As your baby gets stronger, they transition from propping on their elbows to pushing all the way up onto...

. Ditch the "One Long Session" Approach Do not try to get all your minutes done in one or two long blocks. Instead, spread short, successful sessions throughout the day. A 2-minute session after every diaper change adds up quickly without ever pushing your baby to the point of a meltdown. 2. Mix In Strategic Propped Breaks If your baby's neck muscles are fatiguing but they still want to play, prop them up! Using a small rolled towel under their chest or a specific PT-approved positioning...

How Visual Tracking Prepares the Brain for Movement Practicing eye tracking before and during floor play centers your baby's nervous system. When your baby tracks a toy upward, it naturally triggers the neck muscles to lift the head. When they track a toy to the left or right, it initiates a subtle weight shift in their spine. Essentially, eye tracking activates the core muscles and primes the body for total-body movement. Two Ways to Practice Eye Tracking Today Before Tummy Time: Hold a...