Baby massage is a beautiful tradition that enhances the bond between parent and child through gentle strokes and holds that soothe and relax you both. This nurturing interaction helps your baby feel secure. It can promote longer more restful sleep, reduce crying and alleviate discomfort from colic, reflux, teething and constipation.
Baby massage classes offer a warm and welcoming environment where you can spend quality one to one time with your baby. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of your baby’s behaviour and body language and how to meet their needs effectively. Massage is a life-long parenting skill that enhances confidence and can be adapted as your child grows and develops.
Enjoy the journey of parenthood supported by Gentle Baby Massage
My next course starts on Tuesday 12 November at 10am at The Red Oak Family Centre, Merstham, RH1 3NH.
I run regular courses at Welcare Family Centre, Redhill and Oxted Library Meeting Room, Oxted. Please contact me if you would like further information.
I also offer bespoke one to one sessions in your home, including family sessions that can involve siblings.
Groups of friends can join one of the existing courses or book their own at a convenient time and location.
Join me to learn, relax, and connect in a supportive environment
Baby massage is an ancient tradition that has been practiced in many cultures for hundreds of years. The practice involves following a sequence of soothing holds and rhythmic strokes on different areas of the baby’s body. These techniques are drawn from Indian and Swedish massage as well as incorporating principles of yoga and reflexology.
What are the benefits for your baby?
What are the benefits for you as a parent?
What do the classes involve?
Our course runs for 5 sessions, once a week, each lasting between 60 and 90 minutes. We begin with a gentle introduction and relaxation followed by approximately 20 minutes of massage practice. I demonstrate the techniques using a specially designed doll and you follow massaging your baby.
Each week, you will build on the previous week's lessons, learn new strokes, and receive handouts to help you practice at home. We will also cover some of the theory and there is time for open discussion where you can share ideas and coping strategies with other parents. To support the relaxed and nurturing environment refreshments are provided.
By the end of the 5 weeks you will have learnt:
Will my baby need to be undressed?
Yes, skin-to-skin contact is crucial. We use oil to reduce friction and nourish the skin. Some parents undress only the area being massaged and leave nappies on, while others undress their baby completely.
How old should my baby be?
Our classes are designed for newborns up to around one year old. It is ideal to start with babies before they become mobile as it becomes more challenging once they start moving. I can suggest ways to keep them occupied during class, and you can still benefit from the techniques at home, where they may be less distracted.
What should I bring to the classes?
Bring a towel for your baby to lie on and a blanket. We provide high-quality, cold-pressed vegetable oil for use during the massage and for you to keep. I recommend that you wear comfortable, loose clothing as we sit on the floor.
What if my baby cries, sleeps, or feeds during the class?
Our classes are baby-led, so we follow your baby’s needs. If your baby is sleeping, you can practice the massage skills with a doll. If your baby is crying or feeding you can break to feed or settle them at any time. The information is reinforced on handouts for you to take home. The supportive atmosphere ensures no judgment. You can still participate in discussions and I am available at the end of the class to clarify anything.
Are the classes just for parents?
Our classes are for babies and their caregivers, whether a parent, foster parent, adoptive parent, step-parent, or grandparent. Baby massage supports building loving bonds and relationships, and siblings can also participate in special family sessions.
Can I bring my partner, mother, friend, other children etc?
Partners are welcome. Older siblings are not allowed in regular classes but they can participate in bespoke family sessions. You can bring another adult if you need assistance. If you have any support needs please let me know and I will do all that I can to make the classes accessible.
Can I bring my twins?
Yes, twins and multiples are welcome. Bringing another adult to help is beneficial but not necessary. I recommend massaging only one baby during the session and alternating each week.
What if I am nervous or anxious about attending?
Our classes are welcoming and supportive. We can discuss any concerns you may have with no obligation and create a plan which is comfortable for you. This could include a one-to-one session.
What if my baby was premature or has additional needs?
Baby massage and positive touch can be particularly beneficial in these situations, especially where there has been medical intervention or separation. I can adapt the techniques to suit you and your baby’s needs.
Are there baby changing facilities and somewhere to leave my buggy?
Yes but they vary slightly depending on the venue. At Oxted Library there are changing facilities but you are asked to take nappies away with you. The Meeting Room is on the first floor and there is a lift (accessed through the library). Buggies can be left in the corner of the room.
What if I miss a session?
I recap on the techniques we learnt the previous week and the small group size means that I will have the time to ensure that you feel confident with anything you may have missed.
My name is Susie and I discovered baby massage after a difficult birth and postnatal depression. It helped me connect with my son, relax, and rebuild my confidence. The focused one-to-one time and physical touch were healing for both of us, strengthening our bond.
I started my career in family law and went on to qualify as a criminal solicitor. However I wanted a change in direction and moved to the charity sector working in children and family centres. I am dedicated to helping parents develop positive relationships with their children. When the opportunity to train as an infant massage instructor was presented to me, I was excited to expand into another avenue that reinforces communication and bonding within families.
I trained with the International Association of Infant Massage, the most comprehensive course available in the UK today. Their baby massage programme is well respected, well researched and has been endorsed by the Royal College of Midwives to be a high quality parent education programme. For more information visit www.iaim.org.uk
I am passionate about teaching baby massage and raising awareness of its benefits. If you have any ideas or venues for courses or would like me to speak to a group or at an event, please get in touch. I am always happy to answer any questions you may have, with no obligation or commitment.
Email: hello@gentlebabymassage.co.uk
Phone Text WhatsApp: 07961 400 229
