Baby Massage Course

Baby massage has been practised for many centuries in many different cultures around the world. There has been lots of research to show a multitude of physical and emotional benefits from baby massage for both baby and caregiver. Through massage, you can build a stronger bond and attachment between you and your baby. During massage, babies feel loved and cared for. Stress levels for both of you will also be reduced. Massage also helps stimulate the baby’s circulation of oxygen, nutrients, and hormones that improve growth and development both physically and mentally.

Attending baby massage classes is also a great way to socialise and meet other parents in your local community, with babies of a similar age.

What is baby massage?

Baby massage will involve you, the parent or caregiver using various methods of stroking and gently squeezing your baby using sequences and techniques to enhance your baby’s physiological and psychological development and to deepen the bond between your baby and you through skin to skin touch, eye contact and voice.

As well as learning massage sequences and techniques, You will learn about understanding your baby’s communication through their body language and how to interpret this. Massage will always be baby-led and only done with babies if they are accepting of the massage.

Benefits of baby massage

Reduces stress for both you and baby.

Helps you and your baby understand each other better

Increases confidence in handling and interacting with your baby.

Helps digestion, reduces colic, wind and constipation.

Relief from nasal congestion and teething pain.

Boosts the immune system.

Helps babies to sleep more deeply and for longer.

Helps baby develop good muscle flexibility & co-ordination.

Promotes baby’s cognitive and emotional development.

About the course

The baby massage course is suitable for babies from birth to pre-crawling. Twins welcome at no extra charge. We do ask that only one adult attends per baby.

The baby massage course is 5 weeks of 1 hour sessions. Each week we will learn different strokes for different body areas. We will build up to a full body massage by the end of the course. The course is laid back and relaxed, with some gentle soothing background music. The classes are a great opportunity to have a little bit of quality time and close interaction with your baby. There will also be time to have a cup of tea or coffee and have a chat with other parents.

Baby massage is always baby-led. If your baby cries its ok to pick them up for a cuddle. If baby is hungry, its ok to feed them. Whatever your baby wants to do is absolutely fine, we never force babies to be massaged. The most important thing is you and your baby are comfortable and enjoy the class. You will be given a handout each week so you can do the massage at home.

What to wear

We advise you to wear loose, comfortable clothing. The the room will need to be warm for babies to be comfortable during massage. We suggest (but not essential) that baby’s clothes are removed during the massage, except for baby’s nappy.

What to bring

At your first class, you will be offered a complimentary bottle of cold pressed organic sunflower massage oil. You may bring your own if you prefer. A mat will be available to use during the session. If you want to use your own mat, you can bring one along. Babies are more comfortable with things that have a familiar smell such as their own towel or blanket. Therefore we ask you to bring your baby their own towel and/or blanket along to the class. At the end of each class, you will be given an illustrated handout. This will help you remember and practice the strokes at home.

It’s a good idea to bring along some spare clothing, nappies, and a feed for baby. If your baby has a favourite small toy, this may also be comforting if they become unsettled during the class.

Where & When

Classes will be held in Monton, Greater Manchester.

Wednesdays 1.00 – 2.00

Bookings only, bookings can be made online. Each course is limited to 8 babies per course (with exception of twins).

Courses are non refundable if cancelled within 48 hours notice prior to the 1st class or non attended sessions.

Please do not attend class if you or your baby are unwell. Allow 72 hours after your baby’s immunisations before performing massage.