Benefits of Infant Massage

Posted: Apr 27, 2010 |Comments: 0 |

Infant massage is becoming increasingly popular among new parents.  Infant massage can be a good way to enhance the bond between parent and child, especially for fathers. 

Some studies have found infant massage therapy to facilitate growth and development, enhance sleep, reduce pain, and enhance immune function.  Emotional benefits of infant massage include increased sense of security and comfort.  The physical touch between a parent and a child can enrich the emotional bond between them.  Physiological benefits of infant massage include greater body awareness as well as an increased ability to integrate sensory input.

It is important to introduce infant massage gradually.  Parents should start by massaging one area of the baby's body at a time, moving to additional sections as the child becomes comfortable.  The chest or the back are good places to start.  Parents should use short, gentle strokes of the fingers to sweep the limbs and stomach of the baby.  If the baby cries, stiffens, or becomes irritable, then the parents should try another area or stop the massage all together. 

It is also essential to keep the baby warm during the infant massage.  All other areas of the body that are not being massaged should be kept covered with a blanket or clothing.   Parents can use lotion or oil as part of the infant massage; however, these lotions or oil should not contain any fragrance due to the sensitive nature of the baby's skin.

Infant massage can be a great way for parents and their infants to communicate and bond through physical touch.  It is important that parents remember to maintain a gentle touch and a positive attitude during the infant massage.  Parents will know if their baby is enjoying the massage through such cues as smiling, babbling, cooing, and smooth motions of the arms as well as the legs.

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