As I complete our bath time routine with my children, I think about how much we enjoy this time together. Following their baths we spread out their towels and they each get a massage prior to dressing. This is the time when my 5 year old son and I talk about his day. It’s also the time my 21 month old daughter tells me all the new words she knows. This is daddy’s time to bond and have the kid’s full attention.
Infant/child massage is a great way to increase bonding for Mom or Dad. It is very simple to incorporate into your nightly routine and has lots of benefits.
Benefits of massage:
· Relaxing/ calming
· Improve sleep
· Hydrates skin (especially this time of year)
· Attachment/Bonding time for parent and child
· Increase their blood flow and lymphatic circulation
· Enhance child’s body awareness through visual, tactile, and proprioceptive input.
What you need:
· Oil- Think edible. Smaller children tend to suck on their fingers and toes. We don’t want to introduce chemicals we wouldn’t want them to have.
Ex. Olive oil, sunflower oil, or vegetable oils. Also non scented is important to aide in the bonding process and to not trigger any allergies.
· Towel or blanket both to protect the floor and keep your child warm if needed.
· Your child. There is no set amount of time that you should massage. Listen to your child and watch for cues they are enjoying the massage. Go with the flow and have fun with your child.
Where to start:
· Legs and feet
· Stomach
· Arms
· Back
Find what works for you and your children. They don’t stay this small for very long so enjoy every minute!
If you are interested in a free infant massage class, please contact us! Classes will be held Tuesday evenings at 6:00 p.m.
Brandon Scott, COTA/L, LMBT
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