Today much research is being done on infant development and sleep positions. Why? Because it is very important for infant safety that the “Back to Sleep” position be utilized as it has proven to decrease the number of deaths from Sudden Infant Deaths (SIDS). In terms of “tummy time” and infant development, much has been determined since the Back to Sleep Campaign started in 1994. First, the number of head deformities are on the rise. Our infants need tummy time to develop muscle control in their head and neck as well as the torso and arms to promote normal development.

The Healthy Child Care America campaign emphasizes the importance of Back to Sleep and tummy time. It should be discussed before birth and also when the child is born. Follow up education is both offered through well child medical visits and sick child visits to the primary care provider. The recommendation is for the infant to be placed on his/her stomach at least 2-3 times a  day for 3-5 minutes each time. This length of time should increase as the child gets older. This will reduce the number of infants with head deformities and also promote normal growth and development. It is important to note that many popular parenting websites do not address or discuss or recommend tummy time, so to give you more information go to American Academy of Pediatrics website.