"Touching is the first communication a baby receives, and the first language of its development is through the skin."
Elaine Schneider (1996)
What is infant massage?
Infant massage uses gentle, tactile stimulation to nurture and benefit babies and their parents/carers. Infant Massage is not just about stroking your baby. It's about learning to understand and respond to your baby's non-verbal communication and needs.
Why attend a course for infant massage?
I am qualified in instructing Infant Massage. That means, I show you the strokes on my demonstration doll and you do the strokes on your baby. At no time is anyone allowed to massage your baby except you. When you attend an Infant Massage Course, you and your baby are treated with respect. The environment is warm and welcoming and most certainly ‘baby friendly'. The atmosphere is safe and secure, where any discussions, thoughts, fears and hopes are shared confidentially. The strokes are taught, and reviewed each week so that all parents get a chance to fully participate (as parents attend to their baby's needs at all times). We ask permission to massage baby, and their cues tell us if it's okay. If not, parents can soothe, feed or change nappies while the massage continues for the other parents. No-one misses out. Partners and Grandparents are also welcome to attend the classes, however only one person is allowed to massage baby during a session. Demonstration dolls are provided for those who want to participate when baby is not interested.
Our parent and baby courses
Classes are held in small groups to ensure a cosy atmosphere and personalized attention. They are informal, supportive and fun and a great place to share experiences and learn from each other.
The recommended age is from birth to pre-crawling.
Course Cost: $25 per week for 4 weeks.
GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE
 
Benefits of massage for baby and parent:
Improves Communication:
the closeness between yourself and baby helps improve your ability to understand and respond to your baby's non-verbal communication. By doing this, baby feels heard and respected and it increases their self image which is vital as they continue to grow.
Relaxes, Soothes and Enhances Bonding:
lots of physical and emotional contact helps relieve tension and stress in both baby and parent. It helps ease postnatal depression and creates better bonding. It also provides time just for baby and you to connect.
Relieves Colic, Tummy Discomfort and Promotes Better Sleeping Patterns:
Although it may not cure colic, just the fact that you are doing something to help your baby gives a sense of empowerment. A specific technique is shown that helps baby's digestion. Generally baby sleeps better after massage, which would be a welcome break for you too.
Promotes Neurological and Physiological Development:
massage enhances brain development. The respiratory, muscular, circulatory and immune systems also benefit from the power of touch.
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