Stage 1: Tummy Time
As you know, I’m a big proponent of Tummy Time. While babies should definitely sleep on their back, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends giving your child the opportunity to also experience the tummy position during the day. Sleeping on the back can increase your baby’s risk for certain conditions and delayed motor milestones. Some tummy time each day can reduce those risks. It allows baby to develop important muscles. Placing baby on his tummy on the mat allows him to reap tummy time benefits, and develop other skills the mat encourages. Be sure to wait until one-month of age to give tummy time a try! We’ll talk more about Tummy Time and the Inspire the Senses Developmental Playmat by Sassy later this month – so stay tuned.
Stage 2: Rolling Over
Another important stage in your baby’s gross motor development is rolling over. At about 4 months, your baby may be able to kick himself over from his tummy to his back. It might take until 5 or 6 months to go from back to front- this takes more neck and arm muscle. He might use his newfound skill to maneuver around a bit. The Inspire the Senses Developmental Playmat by Sassy works as a great incentive and is a safe place for your baby to begin raising his head, developing muscles, and ultimately rolling over.
Stage 3: Sitting Up
By 7 months of age, your baby will probably be able to sit up without support. Both tummy time and rolling over helped to develop the strength and coordination necessary for sitting alone. When your baby can sit up, you can remove the arches and allow him to explore the floor mat’s colors and shapes.
I love that you are able to use the mat in each of these stages, and it’s safe and fun. Keep a close eye on your baby’s gross motor skills, and utilize the mat to help him develop. Soon enough, your baby will be jogging everywhere!
If you have any questions about the Inspire the Senses Developmental Playmat by Sassy, please let us know on Facebook or Twitter!
