Baby massage - A how-to guide including product recommendations and a video demonstration

November 3, 4:32 PMEarly Childhood Parenting ExaminerAngele Sionna

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Simply put, massages make babies happy.

Did you know that massaging your baby can benefit both you and your baby?

One study found, "mothers with postnatal depression often have problems interacting with their infants... [The] study has shown that attending a massage class can help such mothers relate better to their babies. The mechanisms by which this is achieved are not clear but may include learning to understand their babies' cues and the release of oxytocin."

Other studies have shown "following massage therapy protocols using moderate pressure preterm infants have gained 31–49% more weight on average. Some studies have also shown length and head circumference growth and bone mineral density increases associated with massage therapy."

The benefits of baby massage are plentiful. InfantMassageUSA.org lists the following as reasons every parent should massage their baby:

• Relaxes child and helps to decrease stress for you and your baby.
• Relieves discomfort from constipation, gas, and colic.
• Helps normalize muscle tone and improve blood circulation.
• Helps baby sleep better (and, therefore, parents sleep better!).
• Stimulates brain development and improves sensory awareness.
• Babies cry less, as the parent is more responsive to babies’ cues.
• Promotes bonding and attachment.

Plus it is fun and both of my girls have always enjoyed it.