Introduction
Did you know that when toddlers get regular massages, they can gain healthy weight? Massage helps babies gain weight and has many other benefits too. Babies love being close to parents, finding comfort and happiness in being held, snuggled, and sleeping in their arms. But there is an amazing way to strengthen the bond with a baby through gentle touch.
Toddler massage is a wonderful technique that not only improves connection with little ones but also helps relieve stress. The soothing strokes of the parents' hands can make the baby feel secure and loved, providing a sense of calm and well-being. Plus, the time spent massaging your baby can be a special moment of closeness and joy for both of you.
In addition to promoting weight gain, baby massage can improve sleep patterns, boost the immune system, and aid digestion. It is a simple yet powerful way to support a baby’s overall development and happiness.
Why is Touch So Crucial for Toddlers?
Babies can feel touch even before they are born. That is why parents hold newborns close right after birth for skin-to-skin contact. This immediate connection brings comfort to the baby.
Newborns often move toward the nursing parents breast using sensory signals. However, remember that babies love cuddles from any caring adult. Both parents can take turns holding and gently stroking your little one.
Touch communicates unspoken messages of comfort and safety, benefiting people of all ages. Think about the hugs shared after being apart, the pats on the back, and the high-fives to express congratulations. Holding hands for support, giving back or foot rubs to relieve stress, and stroking a loved one’s hair in times of distress. This silent language plays a vital role in bonding with your baby. Touch is a key part of the love that surrounds your child.
Benefits of Baby Massage
Facilitates Weight Gain
There is a significant link between massages and healthy weight gain in babies. For premature infants, "touch therapy" can be particularly beneficial. Preemies who received regular massages gained more weight. This weight gain is crucial for overall development and health, helping toddlers to grow stronger and thrive.
Lowers Chance of Jaundice
Infant massage can help reduce the risk of jaundice, a common condition in newborns caused by high levels of bilirubin in the blood. During massage, your baby's bowel movements increase, which helps to expel excess bilirubin from the body. This not only lowers bilirubin levels but also helps prevent constipation, promoting a healthier digestive system.
Reduces Stress
Human touch has been shown to reduce stress and lower blood pressure in adults, and babies benefit in the same way. Massage therapy for preterm newborns has been linked to improved heart rate variability (HRV), a marker of nervous system function. Massages significantly reduce stress in babies, aiding the development of nervous systems. Additionally, massages lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone, in both adults and babies, leading to a calmer, more relaxed state. The release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good hormones, during massage further enhances relaxation and reduces infant stress.
Relieves Colic
Infant massage is as effective as vibrating chairs in calming colicky babies. Many baby seats have a vibrating feature because the gentle motion helps soothe discomfort. Similarly, massaging your baby can provide relief from colic, helping them feel more comfortable and less fussy.
Promotes Sleep
Baby massage lowers cortisol levels and stimulates the production of melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep cycles, helping babies fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. By incorporating massage into your baby's bedtime routine, you can improve sleep quality, leading to better rest for both baby and parents.
Alleviates Gas or Constipation
Massages can alleviate gas buildup and discomfort in babies by promoting healthy digestion and a well-functioning gastrointestinal (GI) system. Gentle abdominal massages help move trapped gas through the intestines, reducing bloating and easing constipation. This can make your baby feel more comfortable and less irritable.
Improves Learning
Massages promote alertness and increase learning capacity in babies. Tactile stimulation during the early months of life is crucial for brain development. Regular massage can positively impact your baby's cognitive growth, helping kids become more aware of the surroundings and better prepared to learn and explore.
6 Easy Massage Techniques for Your Baby
- Back: Apply gentle pressure down toddlers’ back, moving from the shoulders to the lower back. This technique is helpful during tummy time or when your baby is sitting up.
- Hands: Hold the toddlers' hands firmly, bringing it together or massaging one hand at a time. This is especially useful if your baby keeps their hands in a tight fist.
- Feet: Hold toddlers' feet in your hands, clapping together for stimulation. For a foot massage, grasp the ankle with one hand and use the other to stroke firmly.
- Shoulders: Rub toddlers' shoulders while they sit on your lap, moving your hands down the arms. A little shoulder rub can be quite enjoyable for your baby.
- Full Body: With your baby on the back, use gentle pressure to move down the body from head to foot.
- Head: Be gentle with the head; not all babies like it. Cup your hands around the head, stroking backwards over the crown. Move along the jawline, forehead, and eyebrows. Trace small circles on cheeks and gently squeeze chin.
Conclusion
Baby massage is great for relieving stress and supporting growth. Remember, every baby is unique, so watch for toddlers' cues and preferences. If your baby seems uncomfortable or does not enjoy the massage, adjust the technique or try again later. Always prioritize your baby's comfort and happiness.
The views expressed are that of the expert alone.