Tummy Sleep: When can babies sleep on their stomach?

Rolling over is such an exciting milestone!! At the same time, it can make sleep a little wonky. In this blog, we’re going to talk all about tummy sleep and address common questions like when it is safe and what if they’re unhappy on their tummy. Let’s jump right in!

To begin with, for the first year, your baby should always be placed on their back to sleep. Research has shown that a baby is safest when they are sleeping alone, on their back, and in a bassinet or crib. The mattress should be firm with no loose bedding or stuffed animals.

Remember to unswaddle your baby when they’re showing signs that they’re about to roll over.

When can babies start sleeping on their stomachs?

When your baby can independently, purposefully, and consistently roll from their back to their tummy, and vice versa, they should be safe to sleep there. This typically happens between 4 – 6 months. However, you’re always going to want to place your baby down for naps and nights on their back. They should be unswaddled and sleeping in just pjs or a non-weighted sleep sack. Again, make sure that your baby is sleeping on a firm mattress with no loose bedding or blankets. If you have questions about your baby’s preferred sleeping position, always discuss them with your doctor.

EXPERT TIP: Do you have a newborn baby that rolls on their side? This is common though not the same thing as an older baby that is purposefully rolling onto their tummy. A newborn MUST be placed and kept on their back for safe sleep.

What should I do if my baby rolls on their stomach in their sleep?

It can be very alarming for your precious baby when they’re sleeping and suddenly wake up on their stomach. They can be equally scared if they have never done this before. If your baby is very upset, you can certainly go in and calm them down.

If your baby is continuously rolling over in the middle of the night, you don’t have to roll them over each time that they do this. It’s going to take time and practice for your precious baby to get comfy on their tummy and/or roll back over to their back.

What can you do to help your baby get comfortable sleeping on their tummy?

1) Practice

Make sure that you include a lot of floor play and tummy time during awake time. This way you’re allowing your baby plenty of time and security while rolling around and playing.

2) Provide Comfort

While your baby is on their tummy, instead of rolling them over, you can rub their back, pat their bottom, while helping them get comfy falling asleep on their back.

3) Patience

This is going to be key while your baby is going through this phase. Some babies are more sensitive to this new skill than others. This too shall pass within a week or so.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: Safe sleep is our top priority. This means that the only thing in your baby’s crib should be a fitted sheet over a firm mattress. Do NOT put anything in your baby’s crib such as pillows, wedges, or any other objects to prevent your baby from rolling over. These products are unsafe and pose a risk to the safety of your baby.

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