The start of life for babies should be simple: Eat, Sleep, and Poop. But what about motor development? How much tummy time do they really need? Is holding their head up early actually a red flag? And do popular baby devices like Bumbo seats and jumpers help—or hurt?
“Your Baby Is So Strong!” …or Are They?
You’ve probably heard someone say, “Wow, your baby’s already holding their head up? They’re so strong!” But here’s the truth that might shock you: that’s not a sign of strength—it’s a sign of stress.
A baby lifting their head and stiffening their whole body right after birth isn’t showing off motor skills—they’re showing a stress response. Babies are supposed to be relaxed after birth, not tense! Parents who have a kid holding their head up too early will notice that it’s not just neck muscles that engage, their whole body is tense and stiff. This rigidity is often due to stress in their nervous system, which more often than not can be connected to challenges in pregnancy or birth.
In-utero positioning and birth trauma like forceps, vacuum extraction, C-section, and prolonged labor are the most frequent causes of this neurological stress in a newborn. When a baby is carrying this tension it often doesn’t just affect their neck. Problems with latching/feeding, colic, reflux, poor sleep, and tummy time meltdowns are often present as well.
The Magic Of Tummy Time (AKA “not-on-the-back” Time)
Let’s reframe tummy time: it’s not just floor time—it’s any time your baby is not flat on their back. That could mean:
- Resting on your chest
- On their belly in a “football hold”
- Worn in a baby carrier
This “not-on-the-back” time is the foundation for everything else in motor development. It strengthens the diaphragm, improves head control, encourages rolling, crawling, and eventually walking. It also prevents flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly), especially in babies who favor turning their head one way.
We’re not aiming for a specific number of minutes per day. The real goal? Make tummy time the default whenever possible—and build up slowly if your baby struggles.
Why We Don’t Recommend Bumbo Seats, Jumpers, Or Bouncers
As convenient as they are, these devices do more harm than good.
That phase of parenting can be tough! From 4-8 months babies often want to be more independent and active, but they’re not able to do it on their own yet. It’s tempting to plop them in a device that helps them sit or stand if it helps them be more content, but unfortunately there are consequences to doing this before they’re ready.
When we place babies into positions they can’t get into on their own we’re putting too much physical stress on their developing bodies. These seats artificially support them before their own body is capable of doing it. Jumpers and walkers can be even worse – these dynamic forces create an even greater physical stress than the child’s own body weight!
The Result?
- Added structural stress
- Less free play and movement (which is how babies develop!)
- A delay in reaching key milestones
Instead, prioritize babywearing and open floor time. We know it’s not always easy—but it’s what’s best for their development.
What If Your Baby Struggles With Tummy Time?
If your little one hates tummy time, seems tense, or is behind on motor milestones, it’s time to dig deeper. Often, those babies have nervous system interference from birth stress, positioning, or delivery complications. That’s where a neurologically focused pediatric chiropractor can help.
At Thrive Chiropractic, we use gentle, non-invasive scans to check for stress and tension patterns. Then we tailor specific adjustments to restore balance and support healthy development—so your baby can hit those milestones and thrive.
The Bottom Line
- Tummy time (aka “not-on-the-back” time) is essential from day one
- Skip the seats and jumpers—they’re not helping
- If your baby is tense or behind on milestones, get their nervous system checked
Want To Help Your Baby Develop Their Best?
Make sure you’ve got a neurologically focused pediatric chiropractor on your team. We’re here to support your child’s development every step of the way.
And if this info was helpful, share it with a fellow parent! Let’s help more kids reach their full potential—and thrive!