How long does each baby massage class last for?
Between an hour and an hour and a half, including time for refreshments!
What if my baby doesn't like massage?
Learning to understand and respond to your baby's needs is all part of the course! The IAIM promotes the value of nurturing touch for all babies and if 'massage' is too much for your baby we teach 'Resting Hands' and 'Touch Relaxation', so don't worry, we work with all babies!
Will anyone else touch my baby?
No! The baby massage classes are for you to learn to massage your baby. I demonstrate the massage movements on a doll.
What will I need to bring to Baby massage classes?
I provide oils, mats and paper towels. You might like to bring a small toy for your baby to play with during massage, a baby blanket or soft towel and spare nappies. You may also like to wear light, loose fitting, comfortable clothing.
Can I bring my partner or friend or my other children?
Yes, by all means you may bring a partner or friend, but only one of you can massage the baby. The other one (you can decide who!) can practise massage movements on a doll. Shantu baby massage classes are for infants between 0 and 9 months old.
If you would like to bring along your older children, that's ok too! There will be some colouring activities provided for them to do whilst you and your baby take part in the massage class.
Are you a qualified teacher of baby massage?
Yes! I am trained by the International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM) - the worldwide leading organisation in this area of teaching and learning.
What are the benefits of attending IAIM baby massage classes?
Firstly, it's a really great way to meet other parents. There is time to chat and relax with a cup of tea as part of the class itself, and a time for discussion to listen to and share ideas about parenting.
All babies and their parents are welcomed and respected in the baby massage classes. We welcome babies with all their sounds and moods!
What are the benefits of Baby Massage?
There are many benefits of baby massage. The four main benefits are:
INTERACTION, STIMULATION, RELIEF AND RELAXATION
Interaction
Baby massage promotes bonding and secure attachment between the parent and baby, one to one quality time, development of pre-language communication skills and the use of all the senses to enhance communication between parent and baby.
Stimulation
Baby massage stimulates the baby's digestive, circulatory, immune, respiratory and vestibular (co-ordination and balance) systems. It helps to develop a baby's sensory integration and mind/body awareness.
Relief
Baby massage can help relieve your baby's gas and colic, constipation, digestive cramps, excess mucus, growing pains, teething discomfort, sensitivity to touch and physical or psychological tension.
Relaxation
Baby massage aids relaxation of both parent and baby. It can help to reduce stress levels and stress hormones and induce higher levels of calm and anti-stress hormones.
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