Massage can take place at any time of day, and you may want to build it in to your baby’s routine, for example after bath time, or first thing in the morning, and do a little every day. It should, however, be a pleasurable experience for both you and your little one, not something to be seen as an extra chore to be fitted in to the day, or something that must be done at a particular time, whether or not you and/or baby are in the right mood.

Choosing the best time

Use your instincts and read the signs your baby is giving you to decide if it is the right time for massage. Do not massage;

• While baby is asleep.
• If baby is hungry – feed first then wait 30 minutes.
• Immediately after feeding, or while nappy changing.
• If baby is unwell. (or restrict massage to areas baby finds most soothing)
• The affected areas if baby has any injuries or has had recent surgery.
• For a couple of days after immunisations.
• If baby is showing signs that they do not want to be massaged. (see baby cues)

Baby Cues

If your baby is happy to be massaged they may show the following signs or behaviours, known as engagement cues;

• Bright eyes
• Focused expression
• Calm attentiveness
• Relaxed limbs

If your baby is showing any of these behaviours, or disengagement cues, it may be better to wait until another time to massage;

• Avoiding looking at you
• Yawning
• Arching
• Grimacing
• Holding limbs stiffly

All babies are different, and will give different “cues” to show how they feel. You know your baby best and so will be the best judge of whether or not your baby is happy to be massaged at a particular time. If your baby is showing signs that they would not be happy to be massaged just then, simply wait until later and try again. When you begin massage with your baby a few minutes at a time is often enough stimulation for them, especially when very young. Gradually build up the time you spend for each massage session until you are able to complete a full routine.

Using Oils

We suggest using oil during baby massage as a lubricant to avoid friction on the skin while performing the massage strokes. A small amount spread over the hands helps them to glide over the skin and gain the rhythm that babies enjoy and benefit from.

There are different types of oil that can be used, but an unscented, natural vegetable oil is recommended when massaging your baby. Sunflower, olive or coconut oil all work well. If possible choose one that is cold pressed and designed specifically for massage.

Vegetable oils are a good choice because they are easy to use, and absorb readily in to the skin, many having therapeutic properties. They are unlikely to cause allergies and are safe if put in the mouth. By using an unperfumed oil it will not mask the smell of mum (or dad), as this scent is important to young babies and helps the bonding process.

Many commercially produced massage oils and gels use mineral oils, which are petroleum based. These do not absorb into the skin, but sit on its surface acting as a barrier to moisture, and can make for a very slippery baby! Many also contain perfumes. They are therefore not so good to use for baby massage.