Stretches for Reduced Tension

Baby Stretches to Reduce Tension & Improve Mobility

Gentle daily stretches for all babies, with extra support for torticollis and head shape concerns.

Does your baby…

• Prefer looking to one side?
• Feel stiff or tense during diaper changes or play?
• Have trouble turning their head equally both directions?
• Cry during tummy time or seem uncomfortable with movement?
• Only roll one direction?
• Have a flat or asymmetrical head shape?
• Struggle with breastfeeding, latching, or staying comfortable during feeds?

Even babies who are meeting milestones can carry extra muscle tension that affects comfort, movement, feeding, and early motor development. This resource is designed to help parents gently improve flexibility, mobility, and symmetrical movement through therapist-guided stretches that can be incorporated into your daily routine.

This resource is especially helpful for babies who have:

• Torticollis
• Head shape asymmetries (plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, or scaphocephaly)
• A strong side preference
• Restricted neck or trunk mobility
• Difficulty with tummy time, rolling, or symmetrical movement

Inside you’ll find:

✔️ A 10-minute therapist-led stretching video demonstrating gentle neck and trunk stretches

✔️ Multiple modifications to help your baby comfortably tolerate each stretch

✔️ A printable home exercise program you can reference throughout the day

✔️ Education on recognizing the early signs of torticollis and head shape asymmetries

✔️ Positioning strategies to encourage more symmetrical movement and reduce pressure on the head

✔️ Information on how body tension can influence feeding, tummy time, rolling, and overall development

Whether you’re simply looking to support healthy movement or you’re already noticing signs of asymmetrical tension, this guide gives you practical, evidence-informed strategies you can start using at home today.

Video Included: A 10-minute demonstration of gentle, equipment-free neck and trunk stretches that are appropriate for most infants, with easy modifications based on your baby’s comfort and mobility.

Please note: These stretches are appropriate for nearly all babies as part of healthy movement and mobility. They are especially beneficial for babies with torticollis, head shape asymmetries, side preferences, or increased muscle tension. As always, discuss any medical concerns with your pediatrician or therapist.