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After spending nine long months snuggled happily in your womb, it's no surprise that your baby enjoys your loving touch. Being close to you and feeling your touch soothes and nurtures your baby. She feels safe when she's with you, and skin-to-skin touch can help you to bond with your baby. Baby massage is great for dads too! Both parents can take courses to learn baby massage, together with their baby.

Baby Massage Benefits

Here are 7 amazing benefits of baby massage:
#1: It's Great For Development
Baby massage is a great example of a sensory activity that can encourage your baby's social, physical and emotional development. Your baby will get to enjoy eye contact with you, breathing in your familiar scent, listening to your voice, and the touch of your hands as you massage her body.

Newborn babies do not yet have the motor skills or muscle development to fully explore their bodies. Baby massage allows the baby to learn more about her body in a safe and relaxing environment. It can help your baby to develop coordination and increase awareness of her own body. Massage can help to stimulate your baby's nervous system, immune system and respiratory system.
#2: It Encourages Bonding
Baby massage is a great way of strengthening your bond and attachment. Baby massage release oxytocin in both baby and parent. Oxytocin is known as 'the love hormone' because it encourages bonding, and leaves everyone feeling a little loved up. Baby massage allows you to focus on your baby. It takes you away from your smartphone, the television and your guests, leaving you to get lost in your new baby. It works both ways too! Your baby will get the time to truly focus on you. There won't be anything else getting in the way, it will just be time for the two of you to bond and relax together.
#3: It Can Soothe Ailments
Baby massage can help your baby to relax, and this can be a great way to de-stress after a busy day. Babies can easily become overstimulated throughout the day, so a massage before bed can help them to unwind.

Baby massage can also be used to soothe other ailments too. If your baby is suffering from constipation, you may find a couple of baby massage moves useful for hurrying along your baby's digestive system. Other moves can be used to help clear blocked sinuses and a stuffy nose. A number of studies have highlighted the benefits of baby massage for preterm babies. The use of baby massage for these babies was linked with increased weight gain and shorter hospital stays, as well as increased parental satisfaction.
#4: It's Relaxing
Baby massage can help your baby to relax. Your baby may enjoy being close to you as you massage her body. You may find that the eye contact, soothing touch and hushed talking helps your baby to feel totally relaxed. If your baby is overstimulated, baby massage is a great way to help her unwind. Simply find a quiet environment, dim the lights, and try out some simply baby massage techniques to help your baby find her inner calm. You will probably find yourself relaxing too. Life is a new parent isn't free from stress. If you feel yourself succumbing to the stress, a quick baby massage may help you to find your balance once again. Taking time out of your hectic day of nappy changes and breastfeeds, to focus on the calming sense of touch could be all that you need to feel better.
#5: It Can Help Your Baby To Sleep
Baby massage can help your baby to get a better night's sleep. Massaging your baby before bed can help her to sleep deeper, and even help her to sleep for longer. Researchers from Warwick University conducted a research study and found that babies who were massaged were likely to sleep better, cry less and have lower levels of stress hormones when compared to other babies.

If you're looking for a gentle routine to help your baby get used to bedtime, baby massage is the perfect place to start. At around the same time each evening, take your baby upstairs of a massage. Dim the lights, play some relaxing music quietly in the background, and help your baby unwind with a 15 minute massage before bed. As your baby adjusts to the routine, she will soon learn that bedtime follows shortly after her massage.
#6: It Builds Confidence
Baby massage can improve the confidence of both mothers and fathers. As well as strengthening the bond, it encourages communication. As babies respond with eye contact, smiling, vocalisation and touch, parents are free to feel confidence about their parenting abilities. As they spend time touching and engaging with their babies through this activity, they become more aware of their baby's cues.

Regular baby massage is like taking a master class in how to care for your baby. Not only will you gain an insight and understanding into your baby, but you'll also receive feedback in the form of smiles and cuddles that will leave you in no doubt that you're doing a great job as a parent.
#7: It's Perfect For Dads
Dads, you may not be able to breastfeed, but baby massage can more than make up for that bonding experience. Carve out some special daddy-baby bonding time each day in the form of a relaxing massage. Your baby will enjoy gazing into your eyes, breathing in your familiar smell, listening to your voice and the gentle feel of your touch.

One study found that baby massage can decrease the amount of stress experienced by new fathers. As fathers seek to form meaningful and lasting bonds with their new babies, baby massage can help to achieve this whilst also providing other benefits to the baby. Fathers who regularly massage their babies are more likely to be met with smiles and eye contact. This can help to improve confidence, as well as strengthen their bond.

Looking For A Baby Massage Instructor Near You?

Find one in BellyBelly's directory.

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Baby Massage - 7 Amazing Benefits For Your Baby | BellyBelly

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After spending nine long months snuggled happily in your womb, it's no surprise that your baby enjoys your loving touch. Being close to you and feeling your touch soothes and nurtures your baby. She feels safe when she's with you, and skin-to-skin touch can help you to bond with your baby.

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By IAIM Australia

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Infant massage and mental health - the full facts - IAIM Articles

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A healthy and secure parent-infant relationship is now recognised as one of the essential building blocks of mental health. Caring touch is one of the critical factors in this relationship. A lack of nurturing touch in infancy has been directly linked to mild and serious social and relationship difficulties (including violence) later in life (Blackwell: 2002; Field: 2002; Takeuchi, Miyaoka, Tomoda, Suzuki, Liu & Kitamura: 2009).

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By Carol Trower

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Being a parent can be one of the most rewarding and enjoyable jobs in the world, yet it is also one of the most demanding. This is especially true in the early weeks and months of your new baby's life.

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Faye and Lucia

Faye lives in Croydon, with her partner, young son and her baby daughter Lucia.
Can you remember how you heard about baby massage and what it was that made you want to learn how to massage Lucia?
The infant massage class in our local area was recommended to me by a friend who said how enjoyable the sessions had been and how infant massage had helped her understand the amazing abilities babies have for communicating. I had not massaged my son or had any experience of massage so this recommendation gave me the confidence to ring up and book on the next course.
What did you particularly want to gain from attending baby massage classes?
As Lucia was my second child I thought it would give us special time together. I just wanted to feel as close as I could with Lucia, just the two of us. I also thought it would be a good opportunity to meet other Mums.
Did it meet your expectations?
It was one of the best decisions I have made â€" the course more than exceeded my expectations. The massage sessions were in very pleasant surroundings and the atmosphere was calming and relaxing, with quiet background music. It seems a strange thing to say with a group of six parents and their babies but true.

It gave me confidence in my handling of Lucia and having one to one time with her and it made me realise how precious this bonding time was for both of us.

I also benefited from meeting with the other mothers and making friends. I was amazed at how touch can breakdown barriers.
What surprised you most by attending these sessions?
How Lucia reacted with other babies â€" I did not realise how socially aware young babies were and for me how relaxed I felt when giving Lucia a massage.

I was also surprised that we asked permission from our babies to begin the massage but after a while this became second nature and of course made perfect sense, as respecting a baby should be no different from a child or adult.
Has it helped you to understand your baby's needs better?
Yes definitely, especially when she is fighting sleep, so understanding how to calm and relax her has had huge benefits for both of us.

We talked a lot about baby communication and cues during the course, so this understanding has been immensely helpful.
Can you describe how the massage has been helpful for Lucia
Lucia was a fairly calm baby anyway but I am sure it has helped her to relax and although she has not experienced colic or constipation â€" I have noticed that I can expect a dirty nappy after a massage, so I know it does improve the digestive system!

We talked about massaging older children on the course â€" so I now massage my son by telling him stories, an activity he really enjoys.
What did you like about the way the class was run
It was a very calming experience and the instructor made us all feel welcome.

We somehow knew it was our space and to appreciate that some babies would be feeding, very active or sleeping.

I liked the way the strokes were taught in a sequence, as this helped to increase my confidence and knowledge. I definitely would not have been confident enough to have massaged Lucia without attending a class.

I also looked forward to class members airing any concerns that may have arisen during the week or talking through issues with siblings.

It definitely gave me confidence to get out and about more â€" and I am still in regular contact with a mother I met on the course.
Are you still massaging Lucia regularly?
I massage Lucia every day after her bath, it is a lovely way of quietening down at the end of a busy day and it helps her go to sleep. Bliss!

Eunjung and Ethan

Eunjung lives in Hertfordshire with her 7 year old daughter and baby son

Ethan was 5 months old when I started to massage him and he is 8 months now and his father is now learning how to massage him.

I am not a routine sort of person so do not do it regularly. I would love to massage him more often, but I am sometimes too busy. I have a very full diary, my 7yr old daughter to care for, housework, and I am still breastfeeding and want to continue this until Ethan is at least a year old.

I do sometimes massage him without oil, and first thing every morning I give him a back massage when he is lying flat on his back. I put my hands underneath his back and draw them down the length of his back just like my mother did with us. Also I do some of the gentle movements that we learnt at the last session of the course, gently exercising his arms and legs.

I was interested in massage for some time before I had Ethan, and I have done a course of adult massage at college.A friend who had learnt baby massage, recommended it to me even before Ethan was born. I phoned up the Children's Centre as soon as he was born and was put on the waiting list. My mother, who is now 70, massaged all of us, and she massaged me when I was in labour, so I absorbed the idea of its value from her.

In Korea where I come from, massage tends to be firmer and more physical than that taught in this country, where it tends to be gentle and baby lead with emphasis on communication . I have also learnt about Taekwondo, which is a form of Korean Martial Arts; stretching with massage. It helps with physical development. By using both these practices at different times, the one compliments the other.

Bonding was the most important benefit for me; not that it needed improving, but I just wanted to feel as close as I could with Ethan. I wanted it to be special time for us. Touching is the most precious thing. I wanted to make him feel secure. Babies enjoy it. I tried to massage Emma when she was 8 months but she wouldn't sit still. I am a fast person, always rushing about. It helps me to relax, especially with the baby music.

I have benefitted from meeting with the other mothers and making friends.

I didn't communicate much with my daughter as I thought she wouldn't understand, but with Ethan we communicate better with each other. He has more cuddle time with me now and we feel close. We both get nice feelings with the massage, and whenever I sing the songs we learnt on the course, he starts to smile. I think I understand his needs better now as we talked a lot about baby language and cues during the course, and we had time to watch our babies and work out what they were trying to tell us. I really learnt how to talk with Ethan, giving him a chance to talk with me: getting eye contact, waiting a few seconds to give him time to take in what I say and respond in his own way. The instructor showed us how to do this with her doll.

Ethan never had problems with wind, colic or constipation, but I know that the massage can help with that.

I liked the calm, relaxing atmosphere, with gentle background music on sometimes, and the fact that it was a small group (6 or 7 of us). I also liked the way the baby massage instructor ran the group. The mothers were respected as the experts with their baby, and we learned that the babies are our teachers. The babies are only massaged when they are in the quiet alert state, so lots of different things go on in the group, depending on the individual baby's state at the time. Some might be feeding, some sleeping, some having a nappy change or a cuddle. If our baby was asleep at the time for massage, we could use one of the instructor's dolls to practice the strokes on.

I looked forward to massage time. When you are there you have 1 Â½ hours (a good length of time) with just you and your baby, and the other parents, sharing.......

I liked having suggestions for relaxation techniques for the parents, breathing and stretching before giving the massage.

We learned how important it was to "ask the baby's permission" before starting the massage , to allow the baby time to show us if they were not in the mood.

It was not just about learning the strokes.I learnt a bit of anatomy, especially about the large intestine and the reasons for doing the tummy strokes in a clockwise direction to follow the natural course of digestion.

It was good to learn the strokes little by little, both for us and the babies, starting with the legs and feet at the first session, the legs, feet and tummy at the second session, and gradually more as the course went on. When Emma, my daughter sees me giving Ethan a massage, she wants one too, so I change the strokes to be more suitable for her.

I like the fact that we were provided with, and encouraged to continue to use a pure, organic, unrefined, plant oil such as sunflower seed.

Meeting with other parents and sharing information was valuable. I would definitely recommend other parents to attend a course to learn how to massage their baby.

And finally...

The following quotes are from two mothers who attended baby massages classes, and benefitted from this simple and special form of nurturing touch. The course took place in the home of the mother who had the largest sitting room!

From Lucy and 4 month old Maisie

"I thought that the class was a fantastic time to spend only focusing on my baby. Lots of guilt is attached to becoming a parent and I felt that with all of the jobs and visiting you have to get through when you have a new baby it was lovely to have a set time put aside to spend with just the two of us. Obviously the group is shared with other Mums but we can all indulge in our own babies and not feel that we have to keep up with the conversation!
For the above reasons I recommend this to all parents - new or old- even if massage isn't something that you are particularly interested in. It was worth every penny just for the quality time together."

and from Ruth and Luke:
"My baby Luke and I really enjoyed the baby massage classes. As he's grown a bit older, Luke seems to have 'gone off' formalized massage sessions, and I respect that, though occasionally he's in the mood and we do ten minutes or so. But I do use a version of one of the tummy strokes each night to help him settle to sleep (it's an extremely strong association for him now), and more generally the classes helped me feel more confident about touching Luke: we've developed our own little sequences for comfort, relaxing or fun. Luke especially enjoys me drawing patterns on his back, just as I remember my mum doing with me."

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IMothers share their experience of attending an IAIM baby massage course- AIM Articles

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Faye lives in Croydon, with her partner, young son and her baby daughter Lucia. Can you remember how you heard about baby massage and what it was that made you want to learn how to massage Lucia?

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By Gina Write

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Baby massage is an expression of love through loving-caring-touching.

Leboyer in his book Loving Hands: the traditional Art of Baby Massage says: "It is through loving, caressing, tactile stimulation and communication that the infant learns that he/she is lovedâ€¦ We must speak to their skins. We must speak to their backs, which thirst and cry as much as their bellies". Touch therefore is as important as food to a baby's development and is highly valuable in establishing a mother/baby relationship. Fathers have an important role too.

Permission to touch

One of the aims of teaching baby massage is to encourage mother-baby contact and to lessen the effects of the many 21st century distancing factors bombarding our lives â€"baby aids such as prams, buggies, toys that entertain and social myths like 'too much cuddling spoils the baby'. Massage however needs nothing more than a warm room. Rubbing oily hands together and making eye contact with the baby before each massage gradually shows your baby what you are about to do and that you are waiting to see if they are happy about it. This 'asking permission' helps a baby learn they have a choice in the activity and you then respond accordingly.

Listening to babies

Vimala McClure the founder of the IAIM (International Association of Infant Massage) discovered in her work with babies that the one and only problem infants have, is that of not being heard. Massage then becomes the vehicle through which parents learn how to listen to their babies. Vimala states that when an infant is finally listened to wholeheartedly, everything changes. The baby relaxes, colic may clear up and baby begins to really shine with his or her inherent joy.

Benefits

In my own baby massage classes the benefits I observe and the benefits parents share with me are many. They include:
- Pleasure and relaxation for both mother and baby. Mums find it provides positive and cyclic reinforcement of their mothering abilities to love and care for their babies as well as increasing confidence in handling and relating to baby .
- Massage assists in developing closeness and communication, enhancing the mother-baby bond.
- Massage may establish better infant sleep patterns by soothing the baby.
- Reassurance to mother and baby regarding skin contact and the 'permission' to touch and be touched.
- Helps calm babies' emotions and relieve stress; this can break the anxiety-pain cycle in windy and colicky babies with subsequent improved digestion. Constipation may also be relieved.
- Improves skin texture
- Mums learn and share with other mums so that they may refer to each other as resources, models and positive reinforcement of mothering behaviours and roles.

An example of a baby massage group class

My group classes begin with a sharing time when parents have an opportunity to talk about their experiences as new mums. We talk about recognising baby states and baby cues and topics related to massage. When the majority of babies are ready (!) and we have asked their permission to begin, we learn the strokes; a few at a time. We repeat the strokes if necessary in the session and again over the following weeks. With sensitivity to babies' responses, there is gradual build up over the weeks of the infant's toleration for a full body massage and the parent's knowledge of the sequence. There is plenty of time for everyone; and both laughing and crying are welcomed. My aim is that parents come to me and feel relaxed and leave with a new skill to practice with their babies for the following week. We follow the massage with a group discussion about a relevant topic, such as weaning, sleeping, crying, returning to work etc. I also provide a lot of literature relating to the benefits of baby massage and mothering, for Mums to read in-between sessions.
Baby massage came as a late gift for my family (my babies are now 17, 13 and 11!). I feel very privileged to be able to pass on this skill to mothers of young babies. I am also very happy when I hear parents continue to massage their wriggly toddlers! Tuning into the moments of the day when our children are receptive is worth thinking about. And those precious moments of communication that develop through regular loving touch are among the greatest pleasures a parent and baby/toddler/child/even a teenager can experience. Hopefully as a result of a baby massage course, mothers and babies may learn the strokes that aid relaxation, colic, and body awareness. Making loving touch a regular part of family life and watching the effect it has on our children's sense of well being, security and confidence is a joy to see.

Camilla Plows, reflexologist and mother

"Gina recently taught baby massage to a group of new mothers in our homes, which we all enjoyed. For my part, I have loved having an additional tool at my fingertips (literally!) with which to communicate with my son Sebastian. Through my work as a reflexologist, I am aware of the immense benefits of touch, and baby massage enables me to take touch beyond his feet to the whole of my baby's body, exploring its development with him. Gina showed us how the massage can be adapted to suit our babies' mood, be it playful or in need of comfort, and in her gentle manner encouraged us to use this wonderful skill within our families now and in years to come."

Music & Baby Massage
by Mrs Lowell Herbert, Infant Massage Instructor and Music Specialist

"When a mother comes home with a new baby it is natural and even instinctive for her to sing to and rock her tiny baby. The rocking movement is even thought to help brain development. She may also enjoy oiling her baby after his bath and stroking his back and head. Although many mothers instinctively massage their babies, it is still lovely to come along to a massage group to learn more strokes and movements and to exchange ideas with other mums. Queen Charlotte's Hospital includes Infant Massage as part of its post-natal support services. The smaller babies under three months gather in their own group and the classes are kept quiet and re-assuring. Small babies can easily be over-stimulated.
But as the babies grow older, they begin to wriggle, twist, look around and roll over. They take more interest in their surroundings. This is when some songs can be included in the massage routine. At Queen Charlotte's, we have made our own tape of songs sung by a single voice with simple guitar accompaniment. The mothers have these to enjoy at home and a gentle tradition of singing is built up. Sometimes the mothers discuss ideas for one-to-one time at home with their babies. One-to-one time is very valuable for language development, and music can play a part. The important thing about these times together is to make them a true dialogue leaving the baby plenty of time to take in and respond to what is happening. For instance, instead of showing a baby a duck and immediately saying 'quack quack', slowly hold up the duck and say 'listenâ€¦.' â€" wait expectantly and then say 'quack quack'! Other ideas that may come up are illustrating a story with one or two instruments and sound effects or using a song to tidy up or play hide-and-seek. Telling a short story on the baby's back or tummy is developed and we come up with some wonderful things.
We are lucky. The true importance of a child's first year of life is now being recognised. We live in exciting times with revealing research into how our brains function and how both music and massage can reduce stress and help healing. Things we practitioners have known for a long time are now getting scientific backing. But rising above science, surely music is a door into the world of atmosphere, magic and more spiritual things. It is something of real valueâ€"so sing a song or two while you massage your baby."
Excerpt from talk given at IAIM study day March 2002 International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM), South West back to articles list

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Baby massage is an expression of love through loving-caring-touching. Leboyer in his book Loving Hands: the traditional Art of Baby Massage says: "It is through loving, caressing, tactile stimulation and communication that the infant learns that he/she is lovedâ€¦ We must speak to their skins.

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By Carol Trower

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They witnessed, as so many mothers, fathers and infant massage instructors since, the total communication of love; that reciprocal dance between two people, the eye to eye and skin to skin contact, the soft touch of the hands, the sheer delight of meeting their baby`s basic need.

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Advantages of the IAIM Infant Massage Program

Did you know that parents who take a class with IAIM learn much more than just the mechanics of a massage routine? Our program involves many different styles of touch, movement, interaction and communication.

Both research and anecdotal evidence from families have shown that there are many ways that babies and families may benefit from infant massage.

They can be grouped into four categories: Interaction, Stimulation, Relief and Relaxation.

Interaction in Infant Massage May Include:

Promotion of bonding and secure attachment

Verbal/non-verbal communication

Development of trust and confidence

Using all the senses

Feelings of love, respect, and being valued

Each Massage May Stimulate:

Circulatory and digestive systems

Hormonal and immune systems

Coordination and balance

Learning and concentration

Muscular development and growth

Mind and body awareness

Parents May Find that Infant Massage Helps Relieve:

Gas and colic

Constipation and elimination

Growing pains and muscular tension

Teething discomfort

Cramps

The Massage Promotes Relaxation which May be Shown Through:

Improved sleep patterns

Increased flexibility and muscle tone

Regulation of behavioral states

Being calm and being able to calm themself

Reduction in stress hormones

Video: The Benefits of Infant Massage

More about Bonding

Bonding has been defined as a "unique relationship between two people that is specific and endures through time."

Touch is a very powerful element in human bonding. Communication, both verbal and non-verbal, and prolonged eye contact are also important elements of bonding. Infant massage encompasses and supports all these vital aspects of bonding.

Delayed bonding may occur due to situations such as premature birth, recovery from caesarean, medical complications, adoption, lack of physical and emotional support and postnatal depression. In these cases, infant massage can help families recreate the elements of bonding, which may help a parent and baby fall in love with each other.

Massage may be helpful in encouraging the connection between parent and child as children grow. It may facilitate deeper understanding, integration and the connection with parents or caregivers. Some families have found that massaging their baby is particularly helpful in enhancing the bond with children with special needs.

Massage gives fathers a chance to connect and interact with their child on a deeper level than the usual day-to-day contact might provide. Fathers are always welcome in infant massage classes and some instructors even hold a special father's class during their course.

You can find IAIM Instructors in your area by clicking on your country's IAIM Chapter. To find a chapter near you, go to International Representation.

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Did you know that parents who take a class with IAIM learn much more than just the mechanics of a massage routine? Our program involves many different styles of touch, movement, interaction and communication. Both research and anecdotal evidence from families have shown that there are many ways that babies and families may benefit from infant massage.

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Click on the question that interests you:

When is a good time to massage my baby?

We recommend that your baby be in the "quiet alert state" to massage him/her. Your baby will look calm, gaze at you, be happy to lay still, have open body posture, or reach out towards you. As you learn your baby's cues you will know when it is the right time.

Why should I massage my baby?

There are many benefits for your baby and you. Please look at our benefits page to learn more.

What kind of oil should I use?

We recommend the use of a vegetable oil, which is preferably organic and cold pressed. See our page on massage oils for details.

Why should I ask my baby if he wants a massage before starting?

Babies understand much more than we realize. When babies are quiet and alert, we ask them if they would like a massage. This helps them know that they can say yes or no to touch. We respect their body ownership and watch their cues to know if they want massage or not. More information in our Oils & Permission section.

Why should I attend an infant massage class?

While there are many books and videos available on Infant Massage, learning along with other parents from a Certified Infant Massage Instructor (CIMI or CEIM) is a more hands-on, interactive and personal experience. IAIM instructors teach each of the strokes one-by-one so you will feel comfortable and confident that you are doing them correctly. CIMIs also help you understand your baby's responses and can help answer any questions you may have about touch, bonding/attachment and other topics. During an Infant Massage class, you will also benefit from the interaction, knowledge and experience of other parents. Find a Certified IAIM instructor near you by contacting your local chapter!

Why does a class last 5-6 weeks?

We like to introduce babies to massage at their own pace. We watch their cues and introduce new strokes gradually, week-to-week. During our Infant Massage classes, you will be introduced to new information each week and build on previously taught techniques. Classes are designed to build relationships between parent and baby to instill trust and create positive associations. Long term training sessions also encourage engagement between parents fostering opportunities for ongoing support and friendships long after the classes are over.

Can both parents attend infant massage classes?

We encourage both parents to participate in Infant Massage classes. This gives your baby a chance to bond with each parent in his/her own way. Fathers and mothers often develop different styles and unique ways to interact with their babies, and these classes are a great opportunity for both parents to form a life-long bond with their child.

How often can I massage my baby?

Follow your baby's cues.

It is wonderful to have massage be part of your daily family routine. Depending on your baby, she may be receptive in the morning, after a bath or before bedtime. Or he may be only open to accepting massage on his legs at one session, may like tummy massage during a diaper change, and like the whole body at bath time.

Many of the benefits are increased with regular daily massages. And some babies happily receive more than one massage a day.

When can I begin massaging my baby?

Introducing touch can be started soon after birth. Start with skin-to-skin care (such as Kangaroo Care). This involves placing your baby on your chest to facilitate close contact between you and your baby. (Dads love this!) You can gradually introduce back and leg strokes and then involve other parts of the baby's body. By following your baby's cues, looking for signs of being quiet and alert, you can begin massage during the first few weeks after birth and then gradually develop a nurturing routine that will last a lifetime. You will learn all this in your IAIM Infant Massage class.

What if my child has special needs?

Infant massage can be very helpful for babies who have experienced challenges in their lives. It is a wonderful way to strengthen the communication between parents and their children. Your IAIM Certified Infant Massage Instructor will be able to guide you as you massage your baby, or refer you to another instructor who has more knowledge and experience in this area. You and your baby are welcome in IAIM infant massage classes.

What should I consider when looking for an infant massage class near me?

First, make sure the educator is a CIMI or CEIM (as IAIM CIMIs are known in the US). This designation means that the instructor has attended a 4-day course, completed an exam as well as a practicum to gain the appropriate experience needed to teach parents. Also look for a course that is 4 to 6 weeks long. Infant Massage is best taught over several weeks so that new strokes and information are introduced gradually each week.

What should I bring to class?

Along with your normal diaper bag items, bring an extra receiving blanket and a pillow either for you to sit on or to prop up your baby.

Can I use an essential oil to massage my baby?

A baby's sense of smell is very strong. For that reason, we don't recommend using any fragrance near a young baby. You can use fragrances to entice your older child to receive a massage. Learn more about the type of oils we recommend.

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We recommend that your baby be in the "quiet alert state" to massage him/her. Your baby will look calm, gaze at you, be happy to lay still, have open body posture, or reach out towards you. As you learn your baby's cues you will know when it is the right time.

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Before babies are able to understand language, we often communicate and comfort them through touch. If a baby cries, for example, parents will hold, cuddle or stroke them. Baby massage is part of this natural impulse.

Find out about the benefits of baby massage for you and your baby in this video.

What is baby massage?

Baby massage is the gentle, rhythmic stroking of your baby's body using your hands. As part of a massage routine, you might gently manipulate your baby's ankles, wrists and fingers.

"You might also talk softly, hum or sing to them while massaging to create a sense of calm and reassurance for your baby".

What are the benefits of baby massage?

Baby massage was introduced about 30 years ago in neonatal wards to support the development of premature babies in intensive care units. A study in 2004 found that babies in intensive care units who were massaged spent less time in hospital, had slightly better scores on developmental tests and slightly fewer postnatal complications.

Today, there is widespread belief that baby massage can increase a mum's awareness of her baby's needs and support their early bond, as well as improve her sense of well-being if she is suffering with postnatal depression or other mental health issues. The evidence is inconclusive on these points but parents do say they find baby massage a lovely way of bonding with their baby.

Many talk about the following benefits:

Becoming more confident in handling their child and better at recognising their needs.

Improved positive interaction with their baby.

A great way for partners, family members and carers to bond with baby.

Improved sleep for their baby.

When can I start baby massage?

There are no set guidelines regarding the minimum age for when to start baby massage. Although nurturing touch can be given from birth, some babies may find formal, structured massage too stimulating in the very early weeks.

When it comes to baby massage classes, some babies may find a formal class overwhelming in the early weeks. It can also be hard for parents to make it to a class on time or consistently with a newborn. As a result, many parents prefer to wait until their baby is about six weeks old when their routine is more settled and their behaviour is sometimes more predictable.

"It can also be helpful to start baby massage after your baby's six week check so any issues with development, such as hip dysplasia, might be identified".

Getting ready to massage your baby

Here are some tips to help you try baby massage at home:

Choose a time when your baby is content and alert, not tired or hungry, and interested in what's going on around them. This makes it more likely that they'll be ready to interact with you.

Try sitting on the floor, bed or sofa, with your baby safely on a towel in front of you.

Find a position that's comfortable, gives you good eye contact with no overhead lights and where your baby is warm.

It's up to you whether your child is nappy-free, but it can help to at least loosen their nappy when massaging the tummy.

It can be a nice idea to introduce a massage after bath and before bed as part of a bedtime wind-down.

How to give your baby a massage

Before beginning 'ask permission' by rubbing a little oil between your hands near your baby's ears, and ask 'can I give you a massage?' This may sound a little strange but your child will become familiar with this cue and know that massage is about to start. It also gives your baby a chance to let you know if they don't feel like a massage.

It's great to massage the whole of your child's body using a range of techniques. To get you started, we describe some strokes below for the legs and feet.

Once you have 'asked permission', gently hold one of your baby's legs between your palms.

Then, with one hand, hold your baby's ankle securely. Mould your other hand around the top of your child's thigh, then slide it down the leg towards the ankle.

Swap hands and repeat. Always keep your child's ankle supported and use slow, flowing strokes.

Next, cradle your child's foot in your hands and use your thumbs to stroke over the sole of the foot from heel to toes, one thumb after another. Hold your fingers in a tripod grip and gently tug each toe between thumb and finger.

Holding your child's foot in your hands, walk the thumbs across the middle third of the foot from one side to the other like a little caterpillar crawling on a leaf.

You could also do circles on the palms of their hands singing 'Round and round the garden like a teddy bear'. Continue with finger and thumb tugs.

Finish by repeating the stroking action in the opposite direction, i.e. from ankle to thigh.

You can repeat each stroke a few times, always responding to what your child seems to enjoy.

What oils/products should I use for baby massage?

While using oil can make massage easier for parents and more relaxing for their baby, there is limited evidence on what oil is best to use for baby massage.

Most research into the use of oils on a baby's skin has not focussed on their use for baby massage but for skincare issues, such as dry skin or eczema. This is important to note because there may be a difference in the effect of using oils in baby massage once a week compared to every day for skincare reasons or for more frequent massage.

The NHS also recommends parents do not use any oils or lotions until their baby is one month old. This is because at birth, the top layer of a baby's skin is very thin and easily damaged. Over the first month (or longer in premature babies), a baby's skin matures and develops its own natural protective barrier.

Here is a list of oils and what is know about them:

Cold-pressed oil - while there is a lack of evidence on its benefits, some parents prefer to use a cold pressed oil, which is manufactured differently to cooking oils and has fewer impurities.

Mineral oils or petroleum-based ointments are an option if your baby has dry or broken skin, as they have been found to be effective and safe for treating skin problems, such as dermatitis and eczema.

Mustard oil can have a toxic effect on the skin barrier, causing irritation and potential damage to delicate baby skin.

Olive oil is not recommended for baby massage because of its high oleic acid content. This can make some layers of a baby's skin dryer.

Other oils, such as grapeseed oil or coconut oil - these have not been effectively tested in research trials so there isn't much information about their effectiveness or risks.

Peanut oil contains proteins that may sensitise a baby to an allergic reaction to peanuts or cause a reaction on a baby's skin.

Sunflower oil is often recommended for baby massage but recent research has suggested it might have adverse effects on a baby's later skin barrier function. This was only a small trial though and more research is needed to establish the exact risk.

Vegetable oils high in polyunsaturated fats may be gentler on your baby's skin.

Safety tips for baby massage

Here are some tips to help you massage your baby safely:

* Make sure you use oil that is safe for your baby's skin and if it was to get into their mouth (see list above).
* When massaging your child's arms or legs, always support the ankle or wrist with one hand.
* When massaging your child's tummy with a circular motion, go clockwise rather than anti-clockwise.
* If your child becomes upset or falls asleep, stop massaging.

Enjoy baby massage

If your baby doesn't seem to enjoy massage right away, don't worry. It's a new experience for you both and it can take a bit of getting used to. Try a few minutes the first time and build up as your child gets more used to it.

Further information

Our support line offers practical and emotional support with feeding your baby and general enquiries for parents, members and volunteers: 0300 330 0700.

Why not try one of our NCT Mother and Baby Yoga courses or baby massage classes?

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Before babies are able to understand language, we often communicate and comfort them through touch. If a baby cries, for example, parents will hold, cuddle or stroke them. Baby massage is part of this natural impulse. Find out about the benefits of baby massage for you and your baby in this video.

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Bond with your baby

Baby massage is a lovely way to strengthen the bond between you and your baby. Parents, grandparents and anyone else caring for your baby can use baby massage to put your baby at ease. It's a great way to build confidence about getting hands-on with your little one.

Support your baby's development

Baby massage can help soothe your baby's tummy troubles, help their bowels and reduce trapped wind. It can also soothe and relax babies, and some parents report that it helps their baby sleep.

Meet other carers

Our five-week courses are open to anyone who looks after a baby, so it's a great way for parents and carers to meet new people. With lots of time to chat and get to know each other, it's a fun, relaxing way to socialise.

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Baby massage is a lovely way to strengthen the bond between you and your baby. Parents, grandparents and anyone else caring for your baby can use baby massage to put your baby at ease. It's a great way to build confidence about getting hands-on with your little one.

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Benefits for Parents | Loving Touch® Infant Massage

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Provides all of the essential indicators of intimate parent-infant bonding and attachment: eye-to-eye, touch, voice, smell, movement, and thermal regulation.