What is IAIM Infant Massage?
IAIM Infant Massage is a five-week program led by a Certified IAIM Massage Instructor. Parents will learn to follow their babies’ lead and engage with their child in a soothing positive way. Infant Massage is a holistic approach of touch, movement, fun interactions, and calming communication. Parents/caregivers will have positive moments with their babies, which helps to enhance the joy of parenting. It is an opportunity to meet other families to discuss, learn, and gain confidence as a parent.
What are the Benefits of Infant Massage for Children?
Infants not only get a massage, but this is an opportunity to get one on one time and play. Infants are learning to trust and depend, as their parents/caregivers are learning tools to calm and soothe. I see bonds between adults and infants growing stronger as the babies are being respected, asked permission, and observed throughout the massage session. Throughout Infant Massage the babies will feel loved and secure. As a facilitator, I see it in their faces when they share smiles and giggles with parents/caregivers.
Social/Emotional- Parent-infant Interactions help foster the neurodevelopment of the brain regions producing oxytocin, thus enhancing children’s future social and emotional development. (McClure, 96)
Cognitive-Infant Massage helps make connections between neurons in the brain (McClure, 75).
Physical -Infant Massage helps release physical tension, balance oxygen levels and provides a sense of security (McClure,75).
Language- Your baby has a lot to say but has not yet developed language. So, he uses his body language, facial expressions, cries, coos and other sounds to communicate with you. Pay close attention to these signals. Your baby is teaching you a unique way of saying what he wants you to hear (McClure, 196).
What are the Benefits for Parents/Caregivers?
Parents/Caregivers connect with their infant during the program. They are encouraged to put away all distractions and try to make sense of the cries and coos heard during the massage. They are encouraged to connect and share their stories. Infant Massage helps parents learn a type of mindfulness. It can add to self-esteem and confidence in their parenting. The bonding and secure attachment make them better parents (McClure, 75).
References:
McClure, V. (2017). Infant Massage A Handbook for Loving Parents Fourth Edition. Bantam Books Trade Paperback Edition.
McClure, V. (1997). The Tao of Motherhood. New World Library.