How to Help Your Baby Strengthen Neck and Back Muscles
 Category | Motor activity |
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With care
- By 2 months baby doesn’t attempt to lift head
- Movements of arms or legs are asymmetrical
- You notice excessive stiffness or extreme limpness
- One side of the body seems more active
- Baby’s chin trembles even when not feeding or crying
Frequently Asked Questions About Strengthening Your Baby’s Neck and Back Muscles
When should a baby start lifting their head?
Most babies begin briefly lifting their head while lying on their tummy at 1 month. By 2 months, they can usually hold their head upright for a few seconds and push up higher on their forearms.
Why is tummy time important for babies?
Tummy time helps strengthen the neck and back muscles needed for head control. These muscles also support future milestones such as crawling, sitting, and walking.
How can I help my baby strengthen their neck and back muscles?
Start with 1–2 minutes of tummy time several times a day while your baby is awake and supervised. Gradually increase sessions to 10–15 minutes and add simple activities like tracking toys, looking at pictures, or face-to-face play.
When should I be concerned about my baby’s neck strength?
Talk to your pediatrician if by 2 months your baby is not attempting to lift their head. Other signs that need attention include asymmetrical movements, unusual stiffness or floppiness, or chin tremors when the baby is not crying or feeding.
Our articles are based on evidence-based medicine and reviewed by pediatricians. However, they do not replace a consultation with your doctor. Every child is unique — if you have any concerns, please consult a medical professional.
Sources
- Hewitt L, Kerr E, Stanley RM, Okely AD. Tummy Time and Infant Health Outcomes: A Systematic Review. Pediatrics. 2020 Jun;145(6):e20192168. doi: 10.1542/peds.2019-2168. Epub 2020 May 5. PMID: 32371428. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32371428/. Accessed 2 Apr. 2025.
- “Back to sleep, tummy to play”, American Academy of Pediatrics, (2017), https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/sleep/Pages/Back-to-Sleep-Tummy-to-Play.aspx. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.
- “Infant development: Birth to 3 months”, Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/infant-development/art-20048012. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.
- Park HS, Kang MY, Choi CW, Koo JW, Jeong YG. The Relationship Between Postural Torticollis Abnormalities and Plagiocephaly on the Early Motor Development Milestones of Lying and Rolling Activities in Infants: A Retrospective Study. Dev Neurorehabil. 2024 Jul-Aug;27(5-6):179-185. doi: 10.1080/17518423.2024.2374543. Epub 2024 Jul 4. PMID: 38965666. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38965666/. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.
- Santos Sampaio SS, de Amorim Rodrigues NA, Moura JR, de Lima-Alvarez CD, Pereira SA. Effects of Prone Positioning on Head Control in Preterm Infants: Randomized and Controlled Clinical Trial Protocol. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2023 Jan 29;20(3):2375. doi: 10.3390/ijerph20032375. PMID: 36767742; PMCID: PMC9915948. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36767742/. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.