Baby massage is a beautiful tradition that enhances the bond between parent and child through gentle strokes and holds that soothe and relax you both. This nurturing interaction helps your baby feel secure. It can promote longer more restful sleep, reduce crying and alleviate discomfort from colic, reflux, teething and constipation.
Baby massage classes offer a warm and welcoming environment where you can spend quality one to one time with your baby. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of your baby’s behaviour and body language and how to meet their needs effectively. Massage is a life-long parenting skill that enhances confidence and can be adapted as your child grows and develops.
Enjoy the journey of parenthood supported by Gentle Baby Massage
I currently offer:
• One to one family sessions in your home. Ideal if you are not able to attend group classes or have older children at home. Price varies depending on the location but is usually about £200.
• Group sessions for existing friendship groups. Price varies depending on the size of the group and location but is usually about £65 per family.
Prices include 5 one hour sessions, a bottle of oil and detailed handouts.
The sessions are flexible with daytime, evening and weekend availability, which can make it easier for partners to attend too.
Join me to learn, relax, and connect in a supportive environment
Baby massage is an ancient tradition that has been practiced in many cultures for hundreds of years. The practice involves following a sequence of soothing holds and rhythmic strokes on different areas of the baby’s body. These techniques are drawn from Indian and Swedish massage as well as incorporating principles of yoga and reflexology.
What are the benefits for your baby?
What are the benefits for you as a parent?
What do the classes involve?
Our course runs for 5 sessions, once a week. We begin with a gentle introduction and relaxation followed by approximately 20 minutes of massage practice. I demonstrate the techniques using a specially designed doll and you follow massaging your baby.
Each week, you will build on the previous week's lessons, learn new strokes, and receive handouts to help you practice at home. We will also cover some of the theory and in group sessions there is time for open discussion where you can share ideas and coping strategies.
By the end of the 5 weeks you will have learnt:
Will my baby need to be undressed?
Yes, skin-to-skin contact is crucial. We use oil to reduce friction and nourish the skin. Some parents undress only the area being massaged and leave nappies on, while others undress their baby completely.
How old should my baby be?
Our classes are designed for newborns up to around one year old. It is ideal to start with babies before they become mobile as it becomes more challenging once they start moving.
What do I need to prepare for the class?
We need enough space for everyone to be able to sit comfortably on the floor with their baby on a mat in front of them. The babies will also need a towel to lie on and a blanket to cover them if necessary. I recommend that you wear comfortable, loose clothing.
What if my baby cries, sleeps, or feeds during the class?
Our classes are baby-led, so we follow your baby’s needs. If your baby is sleeping, you can practice the massage skills with a doll. If your baby is crying or feeding you can break to feed or settle them at any time. The information is reinforced on handouts and I am available to clarify anything.
Are the classes just for parents?
Our classes are for babies and their caregivers, whether a parent, foster parent, adoptive parent, step-parent, or grandparent. Baby massage supports building loving bonds and relationships, and siblings can also participate in special family sessions.
What if I have twins?
There is no extra charge for twins as the prices are per family. It is always helpful to have another adult to help but not necessary. I recommend massaging only one baby during the session and alternating each week.
What if my baby was premature or has additional needs?
Baby massage and positive touch can be particularly beneficial in these situations, especially where there has been medical intervention or separation. I can adapt the techniques to suit you and your baby’s needs.
What if I miss a session?
If the sessions are one to one we can always reschedule. In group sessions I recap on the techniques we learnt the previous week and the small group size means that I will have the time to ensure that you feel confident with anything you may have missed.
My name is Susie and I discovered baby massage after a difficult birth and postnatal depression. It helped me connect with my son, relax, and rebuild my confidence. The focused one-to-one time and physical touch were healing for both of us, strengthening our bond.
I started my career in family law and went on to qualify as a criminal solicitor. However I wanted a change in direction and moved to the charity sector working in children and family centres. I am dedicated to helping parents develop positive relationships with their children. When the opportunity to train as an infant massage instructor was presented to me, I was excited to expand into another avenue that reinforces communication and bonding within families.
I trained with the International Association of Infant Massage, the most comprehensive course available in the UK today. Their baby massage programme is well respected, well researched and has been endorsed by the Royal College of Midwives to be a high quality parent education programme. For more information visit www.iaim.org.uk
I am passionate about teaching baby massage and raising awareness of its benefits. If you have any ideas or venues for courses or would like me to speak to a group or at an event, please get in touch. I am always happy to answer any questions you may have, with no obligation or commitment.
Email: hello@gentlebabymassage.co.uk
Phone Text WhatsApp: 07961 400 229
