Homemade: Roller for babies

A homemade "roller" for babies to encourage tummy time.  The roller allows a baby to weight bear on their arms as they reach for  a toy.  Encourage your baby to shift weight through their arms when gently moving forward.  This is important for getting ready to crawl, strengthening the shoulder girdle and trunk.  

Equipment needed

• Stainless Steel drink bottle
  
• Large bath towel (Bath sheet size)
  
• Yoga mat
  
• Elastic 
  

How to make?

• Place the drink bottle on the towel and roll tightly.
  
• Roll the yoga mat over the towel.
  
• Tie with elastic.
  

Homemade Roller for babies at www.yourkidsot.com

How to use?
Gently place baby (approximately 6 - 12 months) over the the roller. Provide support around the hips and gently roll the baby towards a toy.  Encourage your baby to reach and play with a toy and to weight bear on their arms. Roll them back onto their legs and repeat.  Be guided by your baby with how many times to repeat. 

You may also provide an opportunity for your baby to kneel prior to rolling forward. 

Caution: Always supervise your baby with the roller.  Provide physical assistance and never leave your baby unattended with the roller.  Adjustments should be made after each use to make sure it is firmly rolled up.  This should not be used with toddlers and older children.

A homemade roller is useful for families who are looking to encourage tummy time and crawling without the expense of a store-bought foam roller.  Why not share this with your mother's groups or playgroups?  This is also great for therapists for use on home visits where budgets are tight.  Have you got a baby learning to crawl?