The parents/caregivers always massage their baby. I use a demonstration doll.

 

A. The program includes two 90-minute classes. New strokes are introduced in each class so the babies are not overstimulated. The classes are geared towards moms and dads, but anyone can attend. Extra demonstration dolls are provided so everyone can have a hands-on experience.

 

Yes! I offer a single pre-natal class in which demonstration dolls are used to complete the entire series of strokes. If you are interested in a follow-up class once the baby is born, refresher classes are available.

 

They are private classes held in your home by appointment. If you have any friends or family members who have infants roughly the same age as yours, feel free to invite them to join the class. The maximum is 3 babies/parents.

 

While there is not technically a "limit" for learning infant massage, generally pre-crawling is the optimum time. Exceptions can be made and classes will be adapted accordingly.

 

Whatever you use to make you and your baby comfortable such as pillows, blankets or a couple of toys. A room heated to around 70 degrees is ideal, as the babies will be partially undressed, depending on the body part being massaged.

 

Please dress your baby in clothes that are comfortable and can be easily removed. You always have the option to leave your baby’s diaper on.

 

Not all babies are receptive to massage at first. Relax, go slow and gradually they will love it as much as you do!

 

All babies cry so it’s welcomed! There is plenty of time to feed, change or comfort your baby, and re-join the class. While you are feeding or changing your baby, you can continue to watch and learn the strokes from the demonstration. If you still have questions, please feel free to ask me after class.

 

Of course- and it is encouraged! As your child grows and changes, so does the massage. Even five minutes every few days will be beneficial.

 

Using oil on the skin helps avoid friction during massage. When Loving Touch is used with newborns, oil may not be needed. Studies conducted at the Touch Research Institute indicate that the use of oil had a better response than not using oil. Natural cold-pressed or organic oils, such as sweet almond, apricot, sesame seed or grapeseed oil, will nourish your baby's skin and give a very smooth and pleasant feeling. Do not use mineral oil-based lotions, peanut oil or baby powder. The reason for using natural and organic oil is because babies put their hands in their mouths and the use of unscented oil makes them able to recognize their mother's scent.

 

Infant and or baby massage can be done at any time of the day. The best time to begin a massage is when your infant is the Quiet Alert State. Many parents like to massage before or after the bath and it is also preferable to massage between feedings.

 

Generally, a massage will last about 20-30 minutes. However, it could be longer or shorter depending on how your little one likes the touch. The main thing to note is that you both are enjoying the time together!