Safe Floor Time Can Prevent Torticollis
Let’s talk about something that might sound a little intimidating but is actually quite common in newborns and young babies: torticollis. If you’ve noticed your baby prefers turning their head to one side or has a bit of a “favourite cheek,” you’re not alone.
The good news? With the right tools, such as our Munchkin & Bear Memory Foam Play Mat and Tummy Time Mirror, there are easy and gentle ways to help prevent and support this condition at home.
So, What Exactly Is Torticollis?
Torticollis (tor-ti-coll-is) literally means “twisted neck.” It can happen when a baby’s neck muscles are tight or shortened, often from how they were positioned in the womb or during birth.
The result? Your little one may tilt their head to one side and have difficulty turning it fully the other way. It’s more common than many realise—and thankfully, in most cases, it’s very treatable with a bit of consistent TLC.
Early Signs of Torticollis in Babies
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Favouring turning the head to one side
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A visible tilt of the head or tightness in the neck
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Flat spot on one side of the head (positional plagiocephaly)
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Trouble breastfeeding on one side
If you spot any of these signs, always speak to your GP, paediatrician, or maternal child health nurse.
How Floor Time Can Help Prevent or Support Torticollis
The earlier you start gentle stretches and strengthening movements, the better. That’s where supervised tummy time becomes your best friend—and your baby’s too (eventually).
Tummy time encourages:
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Head-turning in both directions
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Strengthening of neck, back, and shoulder muscles
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Pressure relief from the back of the head
To make tummy time actually enjoyable (for both of you), we recommend setting up a cosy, safe space with a Munchkin and Bear Memory Foam Play Mat.
Why Munchkin and Bear’s Play Mat + Tummy Time Mirror = Magic Combo
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Provides a luxuriously soft surface that supports your baby’s delicate body
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Thick enough to cushion little face plants and encourage longer floor sessions
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Easy to wipe clean, because tummy time sometimes comes with a little dribble… or more
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Stylish enough to leave out 24/7, so it becomes a natural part of your daily routine
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Babies love faces—especially their own! Mirrors encourage visual tracking and head turning from side to side
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Helps keep tummy time fun and engaging (read: fewer tears, more giggles)
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Designed to sit perfectly on our play mats, creating a safe and stimulating mini gym
Together, they create an inviting, non-intimidating space for your baby to stretch, grow and explore movement naturally.
The Best Part? You’re Doing Amazing.
Whether you’re a new mum researching during your third-trimester nesting phase, or already in the thick of post-bath baby stretches, we’re here to make it easier.
At Munchkin and Bear, we believe in turning everyday moments into bonding experiences. With thoughtful products like our memory foam play mats and tummy time mirrors, you’re not just creating a beautiful nursery—you’re supporting your baby’s health and development in ways that truly matter.
