Tummy Time Engage: Interactive Infant Development Kit

The Problem

Effective infant development necessitates activities like tummy time to strengthen muscles, improve motor skills, and prevent issues like flat head syndrome, torticollis, and delayed development. Existing tummy time mats and props, like semi-circular pillows, create discomfort for infants by exerting pressure on sensitive areas, hindering muscle development, and resulting in fussiness and premature cessation of the exercise.

The Solution

The Tummy Time kit incorporates ergonomic support elements, captivating sensory stimuli, and interactive features, enhancing tummy time for infants and delivering an enjoyable experience for parents.

For companies and organizations specializing in infant care, developmental aids, and early childhood education centers:

Innovative Design and Features: Precise positioning, comfort, and developmental benefits, appealing to customers seeking an advanced infant development solution.

Versatility and Customization: With its flexible design, removable wedges, and customizable options, the trainer's versatility caters to diverse customer preferences, broadening its appeal to a broad market.

Expert Approval and Positive Feedback: Pediatrician endorsement and positive user feedback elevate the product's credibility and market appeal, rendering it an attractive option for licensees seeking proven benefits and customer satisfaction.

Applications:

Home use by parents
Daycares and early childhood centers
Pediatric healthcare facilities

Benefits

Benefit
Incorporates ergonomic support elements, captivating sensory stimuli, and interactive features, enhancing tummy time for infants and delivering an enjoyable experience for parents.

More Information

Tulika Rastogi, M.Sc. LL.B.
Assistant Technology Manager, Health Science Center Office
901-448-7825 | trastogi@tennessee.edu

UTRF Reference ID: 21018
Patent Status: 11,896,916

Innovators

Anne Zachry

Associate Professor, College of Health Professions, Department of Occupational Therapy, the University of Tennessee Health Science Center

Dr. Zachry is a graduate of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. She received a PhD in Educational Psychology & Research from the University of Memphis in 2010. Prior to joining the UTHSC Occupational Therapy faculty in 2013, she practiced as a pediatric occupational therapist for over 20 years in a variety of pediatric settings, including early intervention settings and the local public school system. Her research interests include enhancing infant and child development through the provision of occupational therapy services. Her books, “Retro Baby: Cut Back on all the Gear and Boost Your Baby’s Development with over 100 Time-Tested Activities” and “Retro Toddler: More Than 100 Old-School Activities to Boost Development” were published by the American Academy of Pediatrics. “Retro Baby” won the Benjamin Franklin Gold Award in 2013. She currently serves as the Chair of the UTHSC Department of Occupational Therapy.