The following questions will be covered in more detail during the parent-infant massage course.

Q. How old should my baby be before I start massaging them?
A. You can massage your baby from birth. When you and your baby are ready to learn infant massage, please contact Natalie or register for a course online.

Q. What oil is best for baby massage?
A. A cold pressed, organic oil that doesnt contain any essential oils is recommended for a full body massage. This is because babies love putting their hands into their mouths and there is concern about the strength of essential oils; essential oils may also interfere with the bonding process due to their scent. Idibidi Kids recommends organic Sweet Almond oil, Sunflower or Sesame oil. Refer to the Products page for further information and to purchase. Idibidi Kids does not recommend the use of 'baby oil' (mineral oil/paraffin oil) for massage. Baby oil is derived from petroleum and when applied on the skin, forms a barrier so your baby's skin cannot 'breathe'. Allergies and skin conditions quite often appear. Always apply a 'patch test' if you are at all concerned.

Q. When is the best time to massage my baby?
A. The best time to massage your baby is known as the ‘quiet alert’ state; ideally after a nap. This is when your baby is happy to look around and is most content. This stage on average occurs when your baby is past the newborn stage and not 'crying out' as soon as they wake up for a feed. Otherwise, massage is recommended at least 30 minutes after food.

Q. I'm worried about hurting my baby. How much pressure should I use?
A. You should apply the correct amount of pressure when massaging your baby; too light and you will tickle them. It is best to attend an IDIBIDI KIDS ™ Massage course where the instructor will demonstrate on her doll and will also check that you are applying the right amount of pressure on your baby. This way you know your baby is receiving the maximum benefits of massage.

Q. Can I massage my premature / special needs baby?
A. Definitely! All babies should experience a massage as touch is crucial for their development and growth, massage being a nurturing way to provide essential touch. Prem babies often require more nurturing because being born earlier than a full term baby means they are still developing and growing, the difference being outside the uterus rather than in-utero. Premature babies can sometimes be 'high needs' babies; massage is especially important for many reasons. A study done by The Touch Research Institute in the U.S.A found that premature babies who were massage twice a day for 15 minutes each time, increased their birth weight by 47% - this goes to show that the power of touch is definitely in your hands! Note: premature babies prefer 'still touch' rather than massage stroking early on as they are very sensitive to over-stimulation, which stroking can give. Still touch is the alternative.

Q. Can I learn to massage my older children?
A. Yes, it’s never too late to learn how to massage your child. As your child grows older, it is about adapting the techniques for a younger child. Your instructor will show you how to adapt the strokes and techniques to suit your older child. If you have been massaging your child since they were an infant, quite often you will instinctively do this as a parent. For an older child, quite often massage is a time when they can express any fears or anxieties they may have to you. Idibidi Kids runs parent-child massage courses for children 4yrs and up.

Q. How long should I massage my child for?
A. Your child will communicate to you if they would like the massage to stop. A young infant will show this by their body language. When you massage your child, the length of time you massage is always dictated by your child.

Q. Can Dad’s learn infant massage?
A. Yes! For fathers this is a wonderful way to establish and enhance the special bond you have with your child, and a way for you to show your love and support. It is a great way for you to meet other dad’s and share parenting stories, in an all male parent environment (excluding the instructor!). Quite often it is the father who misses that special one to one time with the newborn, for many reasons. Massage is ultimately a wonderful experience no dad should miss!

If you are a dad who is interested in learning infant massage with other dads, please contact Natalie and register your interest today. I am planning to run a “Dads Only” course at a public venue (location to be decided) and would love to hear from you!

Q. What happens if I register for the public 4 session course and it is full?
A. You will be contacted within 48 hours if the course dates you have chosen are full (class sizes are kept small). You will then have first preference to register for the following course, or alternatively if you have a group of mum’s or dad’s interested, why not organise for the course to be run at your home? Discounts apply for 5 or more parents.

Q. What if my baby cries during the class or does not want to participate?
A. That is okay. The babies decide what order I run each session, so I am flexible, but most of all, I understand! I can provide extra baby dolls for you in class to practice your strokes and techniques on so you won’t feel like you are missing out! Alternatively, I will come back to you at the end of the session. We can then have a chat about what was covered in the day’s session. I will go over the session to make sure you are happy about what was covered, so you feel comfortable massaging your baby at home.

Q. What if I can’t make a session?
A. If your child is ill or due to unforeseen circumstances, kindly allow 24 hours notice. You can transfer to the next course dates (priority given). If you had registered in a private group, we can easily change the date to suit the group. Refunds will not be given if you simply change your mind.

Q. What do I need to bring?
A. Please bring with you a change mat and a soft towel for your baby to lie on (the change mat goes under the towel, to catch any ‘wee’ little accidents!). It is quite normal for your baby to urinate as your baby relaxes. Massage is best performed with your baby undressed. A warm room, free of draughts is recommended for your baby to ultimately enjoy their massage experience!

Q. My baby seems ticklish or sensitive to touch, Im not sure he/she will enjoy being massaged?
A. There are many reasons for touch sensitivity, some being if your baby was born prematurely, difficult birth eg forceps or caesarean delivery, experiencing a painful medical procedure, being extremely physically sensitive, having been threatened by touch or lack of nurturing touch within the family environment (to name a few). To begin with, 'still touch' or the containment technique can be used followed by gradually introducing specific massage techniques, such as Indian stroking and incorporation strokes. Massaging your child in this case will take time and understanding but it can be done!

If you have a question that has not been covered in the F.A.Q page, please contact Natalie for further information. More detail is covered in the course (refer to Courses and Workshops).