Encouraging tummy time
0–6 monthsEmotional WellbeingMaterials: Soft blanket or play mat
Place your child on their tummy for brief periods while you stay at eye level with warm, encouraging expressions. Talk in a positive, upbeat tone and celebrate their efforts to lift their head or push up. Your encouraging presence during this challenge helps them experience difficulty with positive support.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Place your child on their tummy for brief periods while you stay at eye level with warm, encouraging expressions. Talk in a positive, upbeat tone and celebrate their efforts to lift their head or push up. Your encouraging presence during this challenge helps them experience difficulty with positive support.
Why It Works
Tummy time with encouraging support teaches infants that challenges can be met with positive outcomes. Your warm, upbeat presence during a difficult task helps build resilience and positive expectations. This mirrors learned optimism principles where viewing challenges as surmountable leads to better coping strategies. Research demonstrates that optimism training significantly improves confidence and perseverance, with early supportive experiences laying the groundwork (Seligman, M. E. P., Ernst, R. M., Gillham, J., Reivich, K., & Linkins, M. (2009). Positive education: Positive psychology and classroom interventions. Oxford Review of Education, 35(3), 293-311).
Tips for Parents
Start with just a minute or two and gradually increase time.
Stay close and engage with smiles and gentle words.
End on a positive note before your child becomes frustrated.
Materials Needed
Soft blanket or play mat
Learning Methods
Responsive InteractionRepetition and Routine
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