The Department of Obstetrics is expanding its services for young families with a new baby massage class based on the principles of the IAIM (International Association of Infant Massage). This program is designed for parents of babies from six weeks old through the crawling stage and teaches practical techniques that foster closeness, trust, and a sense of security. Massage can help strengthen the parent-child bond and support parents in better recognizing and understanding their child's cues.
Relaxation for Babies, Peace of Mind for Parents
Physical contact is one of the earliest and most important forms of communication between parents and their child. “Through massage, parents learn to better recognize their baby’s cues while also creating intentional moments of closeness amid the often hectic pace of everyday family life,” says Anne-Catherine Métry, group leader for midwives.
Baby massage can promote babies’ well-being and strengthen the bond between parents and their child. Through mindful touch, children experience relaxation, a sense of security, and attention. At the same time, massage helps develop the baby’s body awareness and can be helpful in cases of restlessness or stomach discomfort. For parents, it offers the opportunity to focus entirely on their child, gain confidence in meeting their baby’s needs, and develop shared rituals that enrich everyday family life.
“Baby massage gives you a simple tool to strengthen your bond with your child and create shared moments of calm and connection.”
Learning and Sharing in a Personal Atmosphere
The class is held in small groups of no more than five children. In addition to learning various massage techniques, participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and talk with other parents. The personal atmosphere allows for individualized support and helps families integrate what they have learned into their daily lives.
“Many parents are looking for ways to consciously strengthen their bond with their baby,” explains Anne-Catherine Métry. “Baby massage gives you a simple tool to strengthen your bond with your child and create shared moments of calm and connection.”
With this new offering, the Department of Obstetrics is adding another component to its existing course program for expectant and new parents, one that focuses on the child’s early development and the parent-child relationship.
