subject: The Developmental Benefits Of Using An Activity Play Mat [print this page] We all know that the safest way for our babies to sleep is on their backs but this doesn't mean they have to miss out on tummy time fun. In fact it's vitally important for their development that they spend some waking time each day lying on their front as this plays a big part in them learning to roll from side to side and strengthening the muscles they need for crawling and then walking.
Peta Smith, vice chair of the Association of Paediatric Chartered Physiotherapists (APCP) is a big advocate of tummy time. As the 'Back to Sleep' safety campaign took hold (and rightly so!) it became a strong possibility that our tots would miss out on the chance to develop important muscle strengths and skills that only come through spending time lying on their front.
During an interview with the BBC, she explained how this had led to. "Research shows babies placed on their backs to sleep who were then placed on their front for extra time during the day were able to roll, crawl, sit, pull to stand and eventually walk earlier than those who were mainly placed on their backs"
"By spending time on their tummies babies learn to move from side to side and this helps them learn to reach and crawl. This helps with postural control, balance and coordination, as well as increasing the baby's independence as it makes them more confident about their ability to control their body whilst exploring their surroundings." For newborns, cuddle time on the warm chest of a loving parent having a much welcomed lie down is the perfect start.
Later on, an activity play mat becomes the best way to make tummy time fun as well as healthy. Many activity gyms include baby-safe mirrors, along with specially soft cushioned parts. Dangling down from brightly coloured frames, there are also teething attachments and all kinds of interesting, tactile things to keep them motivated while they learn to lift their heads for longer and then go on to support themselves on their arms. The frame can then be placed just out of reach to encourage stretching and forward motion or encourage the "roll over" move. All these instinctive reflexes need to be trained before any baby can begin to start crawling, at which point, of course, you then have to start shopping for safety equipment as well as fun stuff!
Many infant play mats and activity gyms fold away into carrying pouches which means that a parent will always have somewhere safe and familiar on hand. In days gone by, the only comfort on a day out was a folded bath towel with the patterned carpet for entertainment!
