How much tummy time should a newborn have?
Tummy time is awake play with an adult watching closely. Start with short sessions and build gradually as your baby gets used to it.
The short answer
The AAP says you can start tummy time when your baby comes home. Begin with short, supervised sessions while your baby is awake, and build gradually. Always place your baby on their back for sleep.
Start when your baby is awake
The American Academy of Pediatrics describes tummy time as awake play with close supervision. You can begin when your baby comes home from the hospital. The AAP suggests starting with two or three short sessions each day, about three to five minutes at a time.
You can try a session after a nappy change or when your baby wakes from a nap. Stay close enough to watch your baby throughout. Tummy time isn’t a sleep position, and your baby shouldn’t be left alone on their front.
Build up gradually
As your baby gets used to tummy time, increase the time gradually. The AAP suggests building toward fifteen to thirty minutes in total each day by seven weeks. This is a gradual target, not a test your newborn needs to pass on a particular day.
If your baby dislikes the floor position at first, the AAP suggests placing yourself or a toy where they can see it. Stop and comfort your baby if they become upset, then try another short session later. Ask your baby's doctor if you have questions about development or positioning.
Keep sleep separate from play
When tummy time is over, follow safe sleep guidance. Place your baby on their back for every nap and overnight sleep, on a firm, flat surface with the sleep area clear of loose bedding and objects.
If your baby was born early or has a health condition or special care plan, ask your pediatrician, midwife or other doctor how to adapt tummy time. This article is general information and doesn’t check your baby's development.
Sources and further reading
Sources checked 12 October 2026. This page doesn’t replace advice from your own doctor.