Giving your baby a massage

Use this intimate session to talk to your baby: Tell her what you are doing and ask for permission ("Would you like Mommy to give you a massage?") – even if your baby can't give verbal consent yet. "This sends a message right from a young age that your baby's body belongs to her," Pantley explains.

Start with a short session at first – no more than about five minutes. You can gradually lengthen your massage sessions when your little one becomes familiar with the ritual over time. And remember to watch your baby's reactions and body language for feedback. Look out for signs of enjoyment (smiles, coos) or discomfort (fussing, turning away) and stop if she seems uncomfortable. Respect your baby's signals.

Infant massage step-by-step

1. Start by gently massaging your baby's forehead using tiny circular motions, stroking from center outwards. Massage around his jaw, which can be especially comforting during teething.
   
   
2. Pour a little baby oil or lotion onto your hands, and rub your palms together to warm the oil. Then stroke your baby's chest, from center out to the sides, as if you are smoothing out the pages of a book.
   
   
3. Knead each arm with your hands using rolling motions, going from shoulder down to her hand. Then massage each finger of each hand.
   
   
4. Gently massage your baby's tummy, one hand following the other, from his right side to the left. If your baby is a newborn, don’t massage near the umbilical cord and avoid the circumcision site if he has been circumcised.
   
   
5. Massage each leg, then the foot, between your hands.
   
   
6. Stroke your baby's back. Keeping one hand on her, massage with your other hand – first rubbing back and forth across her back, then stroke up and down her back.
   
   
7. Finish with a cuddle and a kiss!