Baby Care: Massage

Give your kid an early appreciation for the pampered life.

Submitted by
AMDMommy

A massage is a real treat for a tot. Can you imagine trying to learn how to eat, hold your head up, roll over, crawl, walk, talk, understand language, etc., all in under two years? You'd be stressing, too! Massage is an effective baby-care tool that helps kids grow, lowers stress hormones, improves sleep, improves motor function and can even help with eczema. Plus, it helps you bond with baby.

Pampered prince: Your kid.
Masseuse: That's you, Mama or Papa.
A comfy place to lay your kid down.
Massage oil: Anything from plain old olive oil to the fancy schmancy stuff will work.
A blanket: Optional

Take off all of your rings. You may also want to make sure your nails are clipped.
Then lay your kid down on his changing table or on a bed, sofa, blanket, etc.
Take off his clothes. You may want to get a blanket if it's chilly.
Squirt a little massage oil into your hands and vigorously rub them together to warm the lotion. Don't squirt it right onto your kid. It'll shock him to have a squirt of cold liquid on his warm little body.
Beginning at his chest, gently stroke Junior.
Rub his belly with firm but gentle pressure in circles. (This supposedly helps the poops move on out.)
Then gently pulse down your kid's limbs.
Rub his feet and hands like mani/pedi maestro.
When he seems blissed out, mission accomplished. (Or if he starts fussing, he's had enough. Stop and try again later.)