Tummy Time and Core Strength: Foundations of Occupational Therapy for Babies in Phnom Penh

Tummy time isn’t just a cute milestone—it’s one of the most critical early activities for a baby’s physical development. At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we incorporate structured tummy time into our occupational therapy sessions for infants, helping build the core strength and motor skills essential for later mobility and coordination.

For babies showing signs of developmental delay, low muscle tone, or trouble with movement, early occupational therapy focused on postural development can make a lasting difference.

Why Tummy Time Matters

Tummy time refers to supervised play when a baby lies on their stomach while awake. This simple activity strengthens key muscles and encourages important milestones. It helps to:

• Strengthen neck, shoulder, arm, and back muscles

• Develop head control and postural alignment

• Prevent flat spots on the back of the head (plagiocephaly)

• Encourage visual tracking and reaching

• Lay the groundwork for rolling, crawling, and sitting

If a baby avoids or dislikes tummy time, this can be a sign of underlying muscle weakness, sensory sensitivity, or motor planning difficulties. Occupational therapy can help.

How Occupational Therapy Supports Core Development

At OrbRom Center, our therapists use a variety of baby-friendly positions and tools to make tummy time engaging and effective. Sessions often include:

• Supported tummy time on soft mats or inclined surfaces

• Visual and tactile toys to encourage head lifting and reaching

• Assisted rolling and prop positioning to activate core muscles

• Gentle stretches and guided movements to support flexibility and tone

• Parental coaching to continue the exercises at home confidently

We always tailor our sessions based on the baby’s current stage and needs, ensuring therapy is safe, supportive, and fun.

When to Seek Support

If your baby:

• Doesn’t tolerate tummy time or shows discomfort

• Has delayed milestones like rolling, sitting, or crawling

• Struggles with head control

• Has stiffness or floppiness in arms or legs

• Shows limited engagement with toys during play

Then early occupational therapy may help. Our team starts with a full developmental assessment to identify motor delays and plan appropriate interventions.

Why Phnom Penh Families Trust OrbRom Center

OrbRom Center is a trusted leader in early intervention and pediatric therapy in Phnom Penh. Our therapists specialize in infant development and provide family-centered care that continues beyond the clinic. We focus on progress, empowerment, and joyful engagement.

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Final Thoughts

Tummy time lays the foundation for crawling, walking, and exploring the world. When done correctly—and with professional support—it helps babies grow stronger, more coordinated, and more confident. At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we’re here to guide your baby’s journey with compassionate, expert occupational therapy that meets them exactly where they are.

Learn more about our occupational therapy services or book an assessment to get started.