There are plenty of benefits to massaging your baby, but you could end up stressing her if you make these mistakes.
Step-by-step instructions from Youtube, check. Nicely scented oil and room, check. Soothing music, check.
You’ve put together all the elements needed for a massage, which has been known to help babies relax and sleep better, enhance their brain development and bond with their parents.
So, why doesn’t your little one enjoy your affectionate strokes?
The experts from the International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM) point out eight bad moves you may be making.
BAD MOVE #1: You schedule a massage on your terms.
There isn’t a magic hour to give a rubdown, so don’t impose one on your baby if she is not in the right mood. In fact, this can be downright stressful on the developing brain and nervous system, says Canada based IAIM trainer Sylvie Hetu.
Your child may be receptive in the morning, after a bath or before bedtime. Always get her “permission” and watch her cues before starting, advises Margo Kilborn, president of IAIM International Board.
“Although your baby won’t be able to say yes or no, watch how she responds to know if she’s ready,” she says.
A “yes” is usually accompanied by good eye contact, relaxed “open” body posture, smiles and some babbling; while fussiness, lack of eye contact and crying indicate “no”.
BAD MOVE #2: Your strokes are too light.
Giving a gentle rubdown doesn’t mean you don’t apply any pressure. Research has shown that babies don’t fancy light touches, which tend to be ticklish and rev up the nervous system, Sylvie says.
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