Baby Massage FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions
Whether you're wondering when to start, how much pressure to use or what to do if your baby won't sit still, you're in the right place. These are some of the most common questions I hear from parents about baby massage and bodywork.
Baby massage is about so much more than relaxation.
Massage gives you intentional time to slow down, connect and learn your baby's unique cues. Babies communicate long before they can use words and spending this time together can help you notice how your baby responds to different kinds of movement, pressure, positioning and touch.
Yes! I currently practice at Smart Mouth in Las Vegas where families can schedule in-person bodywork sessions for their babies.
Bodywork is a gentle, hands-on way of supporting your baby’s comfort, movement and overall ease in their body. It can help address areas of tension, stiffness or restriction that may develop from birth, feeding positions, everyday positioning or the many physical changes that come with growth and development.
Babies can’t tell us in words when something feels off- but their bodies will show us. Through bodywork, we look for subtle patterns that may be affecting how your baby feeds, sleeps, moves or gets comfortable.
The best time is when your baby is calm, comfortable and receptive to touch.
Try choosing a time when your baby isn't overly hungry, too full or overtired. After a bath, during a diaper change, during feeds, before bedtime or during a quiet part of the day can all be wonderful opportunities.
Most importantly, follow your baby's cues. Some days they may enjoy a longer massage, while other days they may only be interested for a few minutes. Find the moments that work for you and your baby and let it be something you both enjoy.
You can begin gentle massage and nurturing touch from birth. With newborns, keep massage short, slow and gentle while paying close attention to your baby's cues. As your baby grows, massage can adapt with them. Sessions may become longer and more interactive as they become more alert, active and interested in movement. Start where you and your baby are comfortable, follow their cues and let massage evolve as they grow and you become more familiar with their body and the techniques. If your baby was born prematurely or has medical concerns, check with their healthcare provider before beginning massage.
If your baby seems like they don’t enjoy massage, I would never try to push through it. Try a different time of day, a different technique or start with just one small area like the feet or shoulders for a minute or two.
Some babies need time to get used to massage and what they enjoy can change from day to day. Most importantly, watch your baby’s cues and let them guide you.
There's no perfect schedule for baby massage. Consistency is helpful, but massage should never feel like something you have to check off your to-do list. Find what works for you and your baby. Start with a few minutes and follow your baby's cues. Somedays they may enjoy a longer massage while other days a minute or two on their feet, legs or shoulders may be enough.
Baby massage should feel gentle, but that doesn't mean your touch should be so light it tickles. Start with comfortable, gentle pressure and pay attention to how your baby responds. Your baby's body, age and the area you are massaging will all influence how much pressure feels appropriate. Move slowly, stay attentive and never use pressure that seems painful or uncomfortable.
Avoid massage if your baby has a fever, is sick, has a contagious rash or has an injury or area that is swollen, painful or irritated. Avoid massaging directly over open wounds or irritated skin. If your baby has a medical condition, recently had surgery or you're unsure whether massage is appropriate, check with their health care provider first.
Gentle abdominal massage can be a wonderful way to support your baby when they're experiencing occasional gas or constipation. Massage may help relax tension in the belly and encourage the natural movement of gas and stool through the digestive system. Pay attention to your baby's comfort and never massage a belly that seems painful, unusually swollen or very tender. Persistent constipation or other concerning symptoms should be discussed with your baby's healthcare provider.
You don't have to use oil to massage your baby, but a small amount can help your hands glide comfortably over the skin. If you choose to use one, look for a simple, fragrance-free product that is appropriate for infant skin. Patch test a small area first and stop using anything that causes irritation as skin sensitivities vary from baby to baby.