What type of oil should I use & why?
Using oil on the skin helps avoid friction during massage
When using Loving Touch with newborns, oil may not be necessary. However, studies from the Touch Research Institute indicate that infants often show a better response when oil is used. Natural, cold-pressed, or organic oils—such as sweet almond, apricot, sesame seed, or grapeseed—can help nourish your baby’s skin while providing a smooth, pleasant feel. Mineral oil–based lotions, peanut oil, and baby powder are not recommended. Using natural, unscented oils is preferred because babies frequently place their hands in their mouths, and the absence of added fragrance helps them recognize their mother’s natural scent.
When should I give my baby infant massage?
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.
How long should the massage last?
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. Watch for your babies cues of engagement, like smiling or reaching towards caregiver. The main thing to note is that you both are enjoying the time together!
Is Infant Massage an Evidence-Based Practice?
Yes, significant evidence supports infant massage as an evidence-based practice, particularly for preterm infants, showing benefits in weight gain, reduced stress (cortisol), and better sleep. Research indicates it improves maternal-infant interaction, reduces parental stress, and is safe. While some studies on full-term infants show mixed results for long-term developmental impacts, it is widely recognized as a beneficial, low-risk, and supportive intervention.
Key Evidence-Based Benefits:
Parent-Infant Bonding: Maternally administered massage reduces maternal anxiety and depressive symptoms while improving interaction.
Preterm Infant Development: Studies show a 21-48% greater increase in weight gain and shorter hospital stays for preterm newborns receiving massage.
Physiological Stress Reduction: Research indicates lower cortisol levels (a stress hormone) in both infants and parents following massage.
Physical Health: Massage is associated with improved digestion, relief from pain, and, when used with specific oils, a reduction in nosocomial infections in preterm infants.
Why do we teach 2-Day programs?
We teach an advanced 2-Day program because our curriculum covers the critical and necessary information students need to know in order to get certified as an infant massage instructor. With upfront information, students are prepared prior to coming to the training. We suggest reading materials ahead of time. A majority of participants who take the program have extensive experience in early childhood education and/or medical clinical backgrounds. No need to spend a portion of the training reviewing information that students are already familiar with or use in their present day practice. Additionally, it makes our trainings more cost effective – there’s less time away from work, less cost to attend the training, thus we keep our training fees lower than other programs. The practicum that follows the training insures that our students are well prepared to teach. We are sensitive to your time and money. Finally, our founder and lead trainer has had extensive experience teaching this program over the past thirty five years and is confident in knowing what our students need to insure their success as an instructor of infant massage.