110 HAWAII PARENT September/October 2025 their environment. It also reassures parents that their support—more than any tool or toy—is what truly matters. Tummy time fosters more than motor development. It lays a foundation for sensory regulation, body awareness, and a secure attachment with caregivers. As babies stretch, lift, and explore, they are also integrating systems within their body that will influence feeding, sleep, and more. bonding. With consistency, babies begin to develop confidence in their movement, and the small milestones gradually build into more coordinated motion and curiosity. Every baby’s timeline is unique. Some little ones may lift their head early (too early is usually due to extensive neck tension), while others need more time to build strength. Encouraging progress at a gentle pace helps babies build trust in themselves and Tummy time helps prevent flat spots on the baby’s head and promotes better posture down the road. “What matters more than duration is the connection between caregiver and child.” Shari Stamps is a consultant, freelancer, podcaster, and the founder of Navigating Parenthood, where she combines her expertise in postpartum, lactation, myofunctional therapy & airway, oral ties, craniosacral therapy, maternal mental health, and sleep & wellbeing to offer integrative wellness sessions, courses, and digital downloads to expecting and postpartum families. As a mom of 6, she’s always learning something new. Join the journey via social at @navigatingparenthood.
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