Encouraging tummy time and play with your twins

Tummy time and early play with twins, triplets or more

Raising twins, triplets or more can feel wonderfully full on. Between feeds, nappies and settling, tummy time might seem like just another job on your list. It is understandable if you are not sure how to fit it in.

The reassuring news is that tummy time does not have to be complicated or time consuming. It is a simple, low cost way to support your babies’ development while enjoying playful moments together. Even a few minutes here and there can make a real difference to their strength and confidence.

When you place your babies on their tummies, they work hard to lift and turn their heads. This helps build neck, shoulder and upper body strength. These muscles are important foundations for rolling, sitting, crawling and, in time, walking. Tummy time also encourages good head control and can help reduce the risk of flat spots on the head.

Being on the floor, whether on their tummies or backs, gives your babies space to move, kick, stretch and explore. It also lets them watch you, listen to your voice and, as they grow, begin to notice and interact with each other.

Key things to know before you start tummy time

It usually helps to begin with short bursts of tummy time, around one to three minutes a few times a day. You might link it to moments you are already on the floor, such as after a nappy change or before a nap. Always stay close and watch your babies carefully. If they start to fuss or seem overwhelmed, gently roll them back onto their backs and try again later.

You never need to force tummy time. Short, positive sessions are far more effective than longer, stressful ones. Over time, your babies will build strength and may naturally tolerate longer periods. It is also fine to start with one baby at a time, then build up to having them on their tummies together as they get used to it.

If your babies were born prematurely or experience reflux, you may be used to holding them upright for comfort. Supervised tummy time can still help them develop strength and might even support their digestion, but it is important to start gently. Try very short periods, maybe just a minute, and watch closely for signs of discomfort. If you are unsure, speak to your health visitor or neonatal team for individual guidance.

Simple tummy time and play ideas for everyday life

If your babies seem unsure at first, begin tummy time with one baby at a time on your chest or across your lap. Lying back slightly with a baby on your chest lets them practise lifting their head while looking at your face and hearing your voice. This can be especially helpful in the early days or if they were premature.

As they grow more confident, move tummy time onto the floor. A soft blanket on a firm surface is usually all you need. At first, you may still do this with one baby at a time. As everyone gets more used to it, you can put two or more babies down together. You might place them side by side or facing each other so they can start to notice and reach out to one another. A baby safe mirror on the floor can add interest, letting them see their own reflection or their sibling’s face.

Get down to their level so they can see you. You could sing, talk, place a simple toy in front of them or gently move a rattle from side to side to encourage them to turn their heads. If one baby finds tummy time harder, you might give them a slightly rolled towel under the chest for extra support or use a feeding pillow, keeping their arms forward and their face clear.

You will see many products advertised for tummy time, like special mats or wedges, but none of these are essential. A blanket is enough. As your babies get older, you might add a baby gym, a safety mirror or a few favourite toys. They do not need one each. Taking turns or sharing toys works well and can become part of their early social play.

Alongside tummy time, there are many other simple play ideas for babies under twelve months. On their backs, they may enjoy kicking at a play gym, watching scarves or socks gently floated above them, or playing peekaboo with you. Sitting on your lap, you can share action songs, finger rhymes and simple books with bold pictures. As they approach six to twelve months, most babies begin to play alongside each other. They often enjoy banging stacking cups, exploring treasure basket items like safe household objects, pushing or rolling toys across the floor and watching things that move.

For more ideas, our premium members have access to our Play Booklet (LINK), which includes activities for different ages and stages through the first year and beyond.

Growing your confidence with play and tummy time

Tummy time does not have to be perfect to be helpful. Some days your babies may enjoy it and on other days everyone might be tired and less keen. That is completely normal. You are still supporting their development when you offer short, regular chances to be on their tummies and backs.

Try to notice the small signs of progress. Maybe one baby lifts their head a little higher, or they start to push through their arms. Perhaps they begin to look across at their sibling, watch themselves in the mirror or reach towards a toy. These tiny changes show that their strength and confidence are growing.

Above all, be kind to yourself. Caring for twins, triplets or more is demanding and you are already doing a lot. Building tummy time and simple play into everyday moments, using ideas that work for your family and trusting your instincts can help things feel more manageable and even enjoyable. Over time, these playful minutes on the floor will support your babies as they learn to roll, sit, crawl and explore their world together.