Tummy Time, Reimagined: Easy Ways to Boost Brain Development Using Baby Play Mats

Written by Dr. Stefanie Rodsater, Pediatric Chiropractor and Founder of Building Brilliant Brains

Tummy time is more than just a milestone—it’s one of your baby’s first opportunities to build their brain through movement. But for many parents, it quickly turns into a struggle. Sound familiar?

The good news is: you don’t have to dread tummy time. With the right environment—like a soft, supportive play mat—you can turn those few minutes a day into a powerful, purposeful brain workout.

Why Tummy Time Matters for the Brain 🧠

When babies are placed on their tummies, they begin to:

✅ Strengthen their neck, core, and shoulder muscles
✅ Develop visual tracking and depth perception
✅ Integrate primitive reflexes
✅ Support spinal development and body awareness
✅ Build neural connections through physical effort

All of this sets the stage for major future milestones like crawling, sitting, and walking—and most importantly, it wires the brain for learning.

Creative Ways to Support Tummy Time Using EZPlay Products

Let’s ditch the frustration and bring back the fun—with setups that feel good for baby and spark curiosity.

Here are 4 simple ways to make tummy time easier and more engaging:

1. 🌟 Start With a Soft, Supportive Base

Use our Plush Baby Mat or Double-Sided Play Mat to create a cozy, inviting space that cushions your baby’s body while giving just enough resistance for muscle building. A comfortable surface = longer tummy time!

2. 👀 Add Visual Stimulation

Lay high-contrast toys, soft books, or safe mirrors just within your baby’s gaze. This encourages head lifting and visual tracking, which strengthens eye coordination and focus.

3. 🧍 Face-to-Face is Always Best

Lay down across from your baby and talk, sing, or mirror their movements. Your face is their favorite toy—and your presence makes them try harder and stay longer!

4. 🔄 Pair With Rolling + Side-Lying Play

Use your play mat to support side-lying or rolling games between tummy time sessions. These positions help integrate reflexes and promote flexibility, leading up to crawling.

Real Talk from Dr. Stefanie

Tummy time doesn’t need to be complicated—but it does need to happen. The right tools and environment make a huge difference in how long your baby will stay engaged.

At EZPlay, we design play mats and movement tools that are safe (non-toxic), supportive, and developmentally aligned—so your baby can build strength, confidence, and brainpower right from the start.

Final Thoughts

If you’re struggling with tummy time, don’t give up—reimagine it. A cozy play mat, some well-placed toys, and face-to-face encouragement can turn it into one of the best parts of your day.

🧠 Your baby’s brain is ready. Let’s build it—one movement at a time.

🛒 Explore our Plush Baby Mat and Double-Sided Play Mats to make tummy time easier, smarter, and longer-lasting.