Tummy time is a crucial part of a baby’s early growth. It helps build strength, coordination, and motor skills. Tummy time can be challenging for both babies and parents, as not all babies enjoy it naturally, so parents may need to get creative to make it more engaging.

Understanding Tummy Time: What It Is and Why It Matters

Tummy time is important because it helps your baby build strong neck, shoulder, arm, and back muscles, which are needed for rolling over, crawling, and walking. Simply put, tummy time means placing your baby on their stomach while they are awake and supervised. During tummy time, babies learn to lift their heads, strengthen their muscles, and become more aware of their bodies. It also encourages them to explore their surroundings, boosting motor skills, coordination, and sensory development. Making tummy time a regular part of your routine helps your baby grow stronger and more active, setting the stage for healthy movement and exploration.

Tips to Encourage Tummy Time

• Start tummy time early as it helps build important motor skills.
• In the first few weeks, try short sessions of a few minutes, a couple of times a day, especially when your baby is awake and alert.
• Tummy time after feeding or a diaper change works well when your baby is calm and content.
• To keep your baby engaged, lie down facing them, make eye contact, and talk or sing to them.
• Use bright, colourful tummy time toys or a mat to make it more fun. Babies also enjoy looking at themselves in mirrors.
• Be encouraging by celebrating small wins, like lifting their head or pushing up on their arms, with smiles and praise.
• If your baby gets fussy, try doing tummy time on your chest or across your lap instead of on the floor—it can feel more comforting.

Adding tummy time to your daily routine makes it fun and helps your baby explore and grow. Every little bit counts, so take these moments to bond and support your baby’s development. If you’re not sure how to get started or have questions, talk to your pediatrician for advice. If you have any questions or would like to share your tummy time experiences, feel free to connect with us.

Choosing between cloth and disposable diapers is a big decision for many parents. Both options have their pros and cons, and what works best for one family may not be right for another. Let’s understand the difference so you can choose the best option for your baby and your daily routine.

Disposable vs Cloth Diapers: A Simple Guide to Help You Decide

Pros and Cons of Cloth Diapers

Advantages-

• Cloth diapering creates less waste, which is better for the environment.
• You spend less money over time.
• Reusable diapers often have fewer chemicals, which can be better for baby’s skin health and may reduce the chances of diaper rash.

Disadvantages-

• They cost more at the beginning.
• You have to wash and dry them regularly.
• Carrying dirty diapers while out can be inconvenient.

Pros and Cons of Disposable Diapers

Advantages-

• Disposable diapers are simple to use and can be thrown away after each change.
• There is no need to carry used diapers around when you are out.
• They keep babies dry longer, which some parents think delays potty training.
• No washing or drying is needed, which saves time and effort.

Disadvantages-

• You need to buy them regularly, which can become expensive over time.
• They contribute to landfill waste, which increases their environmental impact.
• Some babies may develop diaper rash or skin irritation due to the materials used.
• They might not fit every baby well, which can cause leaks or discomfort.

Which One is Best for Your Family?

Choosing between disposable and cloth diapers depends on what fits your family’s lifestyle, budget, and values. Disposable diapers are great if you want something easy and convenient, especially when you’re busy or traveling, and don’t want to worry about extra laundry. Cloth diapers are a better choice if you care about the environment, want to save money in the long run, or prefer natural materials for your baby’s skin. Some parents even use both—cloth diapers at home and disposables when out and about. Whatever you pick, the most important thing is that your baby stays clean, dry, and comfortable.

Diapering isn’t always easy—there’s a lot to think about, from your baby’s comfort to what works best for your daily routine. At Aloha Kids Clinic, we are here to help. If your baby has sensitive skin, needs extra changes, or you are just not sure which diaper to go with, we will work with you to find the right fit.

Not sure where to start? Come see us at Aloha Kids Clinic. We will explain the options and help you decide what’s best for your little one.