Virtual tummy time tips are just the trick for country bubs
WA Country Health Service’s Child Development Service (CDS) physiotherapists have one message for young families – every milestone starts with building healthy movement habits.
The team helps babies and young children with gross motor development, foot position, head shape and preference, developmental biomechanical issues, and a range of other developmental milestones.
In time for World Physiotherapy Day, the CDS Virtual team is releasing a new Tricky Tummy Time Toolkit – a family-friendly series of 10 short videos designed to support and encourage families when tummy time for bubs can feel ‘tricky’ during the first months of life – particularly before bub learns to roll.
For bubs, tummy time helps build head, neck and upper body strength and assists in developing movement confidence from the beginning.
Created for parents navigating busy days and sometimes sleepless nights, the resources offer simple, practical strategies that are easily accessed and incorporated into everyday routines.
Available online and through Child Health Nurses, the first five videos involve general tummy time education and strategies. Intended to be recommended by a WA Country Health Service physiotherapist, the second group of five videos provide handling strategies.
On a recent viewing day, one happy mum left glowing praise for the video series.
“The videos are great – I like that they are short and to the point with different strategies and scenarios – all the babies did very well.”
WA Country Health Service Allied Health Director Anna McDonald said the development of the Tricky Tummy Time Toolkit was a natural progression for a team that prides itself on innovation.
“From increasing the virtual options we have available, and with more families seeking online advice and support through online platforms, resources like the Tricky Tummy Time Toolkit are helping to engage, support and provide trusted education to country families.
“Drop-in clinics and online appointments are also provided by the CDS Virtual team,” Anna said.
“It’s all part of assisting families to access our services closer to home.”
Click here to learn more about World Physiotherapy Day.