Fussy floor time happens. Babies frequently require our presence and attention – all of their normal development.
First, is it fussy floor time, or is it unrealistic expectations?
Many parents feel defeated when they offer tummy or floor time, only to find that their baby cries for them after just a few minutes. Consider the age and stage of your baby. If you’re offering floor play to your tiny newborn, it’s developmentally appropriate for this activity to last a short time. Their tolerance to floor play and ability to focus independently will increase in time.
For persistently fussy babies, here are some rookie mistakes to avoid:
Don’t treat floor play as “drop and go”:It’s normal for your baby to crave your presence and guidance, and while this doesn’t mean you’ll need to lead their play, it does mean they will feel safer to explore when you are close to support. Join them to provide a boost of connection and reassurance.
Keep an eye out for signs of sleepiness or hunger:Playing when tired, hungry, or uncomfortable in a wet diaper is challenging. Offer floor play and tummy time when their other needs have been met.
Consider any issues with infant reflux:Ensure you keep the baby upright for about 30 minutes before attempting floor time if they have recently eaten.
Limit time confined in baby gear:It might not be intuitive since most baby aisles are filled with baby gear, but these devices should only be used sparingly. If baby gear is how baby spends most of their playtime, they may develop a preference for this, which could add blockers to floor play (and their gross motor development).
Many experts recommend the 15:2 rule: Aim for less than 2 hours per day when baby is contained in gear, with no more than 15 minutes spent in baby gear per wake period.
Above all, respond to your baby and don’t force floor time or tummy time when they are visibly upset. You can provide the right conditions for floor play, but it will be one part of your days together; the rest will likely entail a lot of holding, bonding, and snuggling.