Massaging Your Baby: The Joy of Touch Time

The power of touch is real and has been scientifically shown to have remarkable effects. For children, it encourages relaxation; improves sleep patterns; reduces discomfort from teething, colic and gas; strengthens digestive and circulatory systems; and does so much more. For parents, it nurtures bonding, increases communication, promotes parenting skills, and actually reduces stress levels. Now, to help parents understand the power of massage and incorporate it into their daily childcare routine, massage expert, Dr. Elaine Fogel Schneider, has written the ultimate guide to using infant massage at home. Based on the latest research, Massaging Your Baby begins by explaining how and why massage is so beneficial to young ones. This is followed by the basics: an explanation of the items you will need to have on hand and of the best times to massage your child. The book then provides an easy-to-follow step-by-step guide to effective massage techniques. Included is a section on songs and rhymes that complement massage time. And as the child gets bigger, additional techniques are offered to treat sore muscles from sports and play. There is even a wonderful section designed for children with special needs, from autism to ADD, Downs Syndrome and spina bifida.