Pillows can be a helpful tool for tummy time, as they can provide a comfortable and angled surface for your baby to lie on, which may make the experience more enjoyable and encouraging for longer periods of play and development. To use a pillow for tummy time, simply place a thin, firm pillow under your baby’s chest and armpits, ensuring their arms are in front for support. The pillow should be flat enough to offer stability while still being soft to protect your baby’s body.
Understanding Tummy Time and Its Importance
Tummy time is a daily practice where you place your baby on their stomach while they’re awake and supervised. It is an integral part of infant development recommended by pediatricians to help babies strengthen their neck, shoulder, and arm muscles and promote motor skills. It can also help prevent flat spots on the back of your baby’s head, known as positional plagiocephaly.
When to Start Tummy Time
You can begin tummy time as soon as your baby comes home from the hospital. Start with small increments of time, around 2-3 minutes, and slowly increase the duration as your baby grows and becomes more accustomed to the activity.
Benefits of Tummy Time
The benefits of tummy time include the development of strong neck and shoulder muscles, improved motor skills, and the promotion of natural postural alignment. It can also prove beneficial for babies with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), as the prone position may aid digestion.
Our Top 5 Pillow Picks
Updated September 2026MFWW Cervical Contour Memory Foam Pillow
Best for neck pain. A dual-height ergonomic contour cradles your head and supports the neck, for back and side sleepers.
- Contour memory foam
- Dual-height design
- Cool breathable cover
Cooling Shredded Memory Foam Pillows, Standard, 2-Pack
Best value pair. Shredded foam you can adjust to your loft, with a cool-gel feel and no solid-block heat. Two pillows in one box.
- Adjustable shredded foam
- Cool gel
- Hypoallergenic
- Standard 2-pack
Cooling Shredded Memory Foam Pillows, Queen, Set of 4
Best for the whole household. The same adjustable cooling foam in queen size, four to a set, so every bed in the house gets an upgrade.
- Adjustable shredded foam
- Cool gel
- Hypoallergenic
- Queen set of 4
Utopia Bedding Hotel Pillows, Queen, Set of 4
Best hotel-style set. Plush, cooling pillows made to suit side, back and stomach sleepers alike. A safe pick for guest rooms.
- Queen set of 4
- Cooling
- All sleep positions
- Hotel style
Zalmureta Goose Feather & Down Pillows, Queen, Set of 2
Best luxury pick. A three-chamber goose feather and down fill wrapped in a 100% cotton shell, for that five-star-hotel feel at home.
- Goose feather & down
- 3-chamber design
- 100% cotton shell
- Queen 2-pack
Choosing the Right Pillow for Tummy Time
It’s important to choose the right pillow to make tummy time both safe and effective for your baby. A pillow used for tummy time should be flat, firm, and not prone to shifting or bunching under your baby’s weight. Consider the following when selecting a pillow:
– **Size**: The pillow should be large enough to support your baby’s chest and underarms without being too bulky.
– **Material**: A pillow with a cotton cover is ideal because it’s breathable, and the filling should be firm enough to provide support but not so soft that it poses a risk of suffocation.
– **Cleanliness**: Make sure the pillow is clean and free of any allergens that could irritate your baby’s sensitive skin.
Setting Up for Tummy Time Using a Pillow
Once you have the appropriate pillow for tummy time, follow these steps to set it up:
Choosing the Right Surface
Select a flat, soft surface such as a play mat or blanket on the floor. Avoid placing pillows on elevated surfaces, as there’s a risk of your baby rolling off.
Positioning the Pillow
Place the pillow on the chosen surface and gently lay your baby down on their stomach with the pillow under their chest and armpits, and their arms should be out in front over the pillow.
Encouraging Engagement
Position yourself close to eye level with your baby to encourage interaction. You can also place colorful toys in front of the pillow to make tummy time more engaging.
Ensuring Safety During Tummy Time
Safety is the most important aspect of tummy time. Keep these safety tips in mind:
– Always supervise your baby during tummy time.
– Never leave your baby unsupervised with a pillow.
– Ensure the pillow is firm and not overly thick or plush.
– Keep the area around your baby clear of objects that could pose a choking hazard.
– If your baby falls asleep on the pillow, move them to a safe sleeping surface immediately.
Tummy Time Alternatives and Variations
If your baby doesn’t enjoy tummy time on a pillow or you’re looking for some variations, consider the following options:
Chest-to-Chest Tummy Time
Lay back at a reclined angle and place your baby on your chest to do tummy time. This method allows for bonding and can be more comforting for the baby.
Lap Tummy Time
Place your baby across your lap, providing support and a change of scenery from the floor.
Tummy-to-Tummy Time
Lay down on the floor facing upwards and place your baby on your tummy. This helps strengthen your bond and can be more playful and fun for both of you.
Incorporating Tummy Time Into Daily Routine
Incorporate tummy time into your daily routine by picking a specific time each day for the activity. After diaper changes and naps is often a good opportunity when your baby is alert. Don’t force tummy time if your baby is tired or hungry, as they might associate it with discomfort.
Overcoming Tummy Time Challenges
Not all babies will enjoy tummy time initially, but there are ways to overcome these challenges:
– Start slow and gradually increase the time.
– Use engaging toys and interactions to distract and entertain your baby.
– If your baby is frustrated or upset, take a break and try again later.
Tracking Tummy Time Progress
Keep track of your baby’s progress during tummy time by noting how long they can comfortably stay on their tummy, and any new movements or skills they develop. This can be encouraging for you as a parent and can also be useful information to share with your pediatrician.
Finishing Thoughts
Using a pillow for tummy time can significantly benefit your baby’s development and make the experience more pleasant for both of you. By choosing the right pillow, creating a safe environment, and incorporating engaging and varied tummy time activities, you can help ensure that your baby grows strong and healthy. Remember to be patient and consistent with tummy time, as it’s an essential building block for your child’s future growth and development.
