This interaction gives both the child and father a special time together. It can also be a great learning experience. The infant learns to relax and release tensions of daily stimuli. Massage is emotionally nourishing for an infant. Massage also promotes sleep in infants as it reduces gas and colic.
Parents gain many important benefits as well.
Time spent massaging an infant enhances the communication and emotional ties between the parent and child. Parents learn what stimulates their child and just as importantly, how their touch can sooth and relax a child. Relaxing and listening During infant massage parents also relax and listen to their infant. A parent's confidence and handling skills increase as they learn to better nurture and comfort the child. The relaxed environment is the perfect opportunity for conversation as the child gets older.