baby massage - frequently asked questions
Q. How old should my baby be before I start massaging him?
A. You can begin to massage your baby as soon as he or
she is born as long as you remember to be sensitive to their reponse. Often,
when you begin to massage for the first time baby will fuss and cry. Be
prepared for this and take it easy! Our courses teach you how to read baby's
cues and help you to develop a unique dialogue with your child during massage.
Q.
What oil is best for baby massage?
A. An edible vegetable oil is best, organic if you can
get it - try sunflower for starters. Do a spot test by applying a dab of
the oil to the inside of your and baby's wrist an hour prior to massage.
If the area reddens or shows any sign of reaction do not use the oil. Many
commercial baby oils are unsafe and you should steer clear of petroleum based oils.
Visit our baby massage oils page to buy the best infant massage oil online.
Q. When is the best time to massage my baby?
A. Your baby should be fully awake and alert, calm and
bright eyed. If your baby is over-excited or tired the massage may over
stimulate her and distress her. For this reason bathtime is often not a
good time to massage - young babies in particular will be tired from their
bath and will find the massage too stimulating.
Q. I'm worried about hurting my baby. How much pressure should
I use?
A. As a guide you can try pressing on your eyelid with
your fingertip. The kind of pressure you can apply without discomfort is
about right for massaging baby. Beware of touching baby too lightly - this
can be irritating. How would you like an all over tickle?! Remember to watch
baby's response. He will let you know if he is uncomfortable.
Q. Can I massage my premature / special needs baby?
A. Consult your physician first. If he
/ she agrees massage can be extremely beneficial for children in these groups
but you may need to adapt the strokes. Many premature babies respond best
to containment holds and resting hands rather than active stroking which
can be too stimulating.
Q. Can I massage my older children?
A. Yes! Most older children love a massage and will soon
be bringing you the oil and towel themselves. IAIM classes teach you a skill
for life, showing you how to adapt the strokes as your child grows. Instructors may also
share some lovely "story massages" for older children and discuss
how to share nuturing touch with your children right through to adulthood.
Q. I've already learnt the Top to Toe routine. Why bother with
a course?
A. The Top to Toe routine is a good start. However it's
no substitute for individual attention with a Certified Infant Massage Instructor.
Through attending an IAIM course you get the support you need to make massage
a part of your everyday life, and learn how to communicate with your baby
on a deeper level. Besides the 40 stroke routine developed by Vimala McClure
you will also learn gentle movements, techniques for older children and
will explore your relationship with your baby through touch. Add to that
the opportunity to share experiences with other parents and carers, informal
discussions and the odd chocolate biscuit and you have a formula for
long term massaging success!
Q. How do I know the course is good quality?
A. Chickabiddies recommends you only book on to a course with
an International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM) Certified Infant Massage
Instructor (CIMI). Formed in the 1980's, the IAIM trains instructors across
the globe with representatives in over 40 countries. To become a CIMI candidates
must undergo a rigorous training programme comprising a 4 day intensive
workshop, multi-choice and short answer exam papers, seven essay questions
and mandatory evaluated teaching of the five week course to a minimum of
five babies and their carers. You can be sure that an IAIM instructor has
been trained to the highest standards - look for their logo for your reassurance
of quality.
Q. How do I book?
A. Visit our Find
an Instructor page for details of your nearest IAIM CIMI. Happy massaging!
