Baby massage can be an important part of parenthood, providing a great opportunity for skin-to-skin bonding between you and your new baby. It is also recommended as a settling technique for new parents to use with their newborn.

There is a lot of evidence and research behind the process of baby massage, giving new parents ‘tried and true ideas’ for settling and bonding with their new little family member. Babies often associate massage and baths with sleep, as it signals that it’s time to relax, rest and go to bed.

Massage is the first step of Cetaphil’s six steps for a happy baby which include;

1. Massage
2. Bath
3. Moisturise
4. Feed
5. Swaddle
6. Sleep

Which body parts should you focus on during baby massage?

Your midwife will be able to share the benefits of massaging your baby, plus the techniques to use. Areas for massage include baby’s upper back, their arms, legs, hands and feet. Your midwife can show you the safest way to massage your baby and how to do this with confidence.

The best products to use when giving your baby a massage

Your midwife will also explain the best products to use on your baby during a massage. Look for products that are formulated to be gentle on your newborn’s skin, mineral oil free and hypoallergenic.

The Australian College of Midwives endorses the Cetaphil Baby Range, one of the many ways that the Australian College of Midwives helps new parents, providing information around what is best for their little ones.

Cetaphil Baby has a Massage Oil which could be used for your baby massage, which includes shea butter and vitamin E to gently moisturise baby’s delicate skin.

Safety measures to keep in mind when massaging your baby

Safety advice is very important to consider when learning how to give your newborn a massage. There are recommended measures that your midwife can take you through which include:

• The recommended room temperature
• The different types of massage
• Where to massage and the length of time to massage
• The recommended products to use
• Assisting in the settling processes for parents with their newborn baby’s massage and/or bath, whether this be on a daily or second daily basis

If these safety measures are followed, you’ll be set up for success. Baby massage is an amazing way for parents to bond with their little ones through creating intimacy that is extremely beneficial for both parent and child.

Did you or do you do baby massage on your bub? Tell us in the comments below.