Did you know that touch is your baby's first language? It can be so challenging for new parents to develop a connection with their baby due to all of the factors within postpartum, such as physical healing and mental health. Our topic for this episode is something that helps build the connection between parent and baby, and has so many other benefits. This episode is all about infant massage.
Guest Speaker
We are joined by Doctor Kimberly Day, a board certified pediatric occupational therapist and perinatal mental health specialist. She is the founder of Sunny Day Therapy where she focuses on nervous system regulation and perinatal mental health. She has earned advanced certifications in infant massage, reflex development, and home modifications. Dr. Day is passionate about advocating for parents and babies to have the tools they need to regulate and understand their needs.
What Is Infant Massage?
Infant massage is a touch based tool used to help parents bond with their baby. The process of touch and massage releases hormones between parent and baby that allow for bonding and emotional attachment.
Dr. Day learned 2 different massage protocols. One is from birth to 6 weeks old. The other is from 6 weeks old to 3 years old. However, she also sees the benefits of using massage well beyond 3 years old as well in her pediatric practice.
Benefits of Infant Massage
- Accelerated bonding and attachment between child and caregiver
- Improved muscle growth and weight gain
- Stress reduction for child and parent
- Healthy sleep and digestion
- Increased parental confidence and competence
- Enhanced understanding of communication
- Improved behavior and mood
- Development of motor planning and integrating reflexes
- Reducing pain and tension
- Helpful tool for parents with injuries or disability (Dr. Day had a back injury 3 months postpartum and discovered infant massage was an easy way to bond that did not exacerbate her pain)
How Can You Learn?
Infant massage is simple and easy to learn. It is a tool you can take with you wherever you go and the only supplies necessary are a parent and their baby.
It is important to involve an OT or other healthcare professional to ensure you are doing it in a safe and effective way.
Resources
- Dr. Day's Website: Sunny Day Therapy
- Infant Massage USA: Find a Parent Class
- Dr. Day on Instagram: @SunnyDayWellnessOT
This article is a companion to Episode 5 of the Functional Fourth Trimester podcast.