What is Infant Massage?

Infant massage has been practiced worldwide for centuries and has incredible benefits including:
- better digestion
- improved sleep (both mother and baby)
- reduction in postpartum depression
- improved breastfeeding rates
- increased weight gain...
-...and SO many more!

I first learn about infant massage in 2009 when training in the UK with Cherry Bond and Inga Warren's long established 'Developmental Care and Positive Touch' program. Since this time I have been particularly fascinated with the incredible benefits of skin to skin as well as using infant massage for its range of benefits. I am a certified infant massage instructor and have been teaching both in the hospital and community setting, but I am excited to bring this new class to the Lake Macquarie area. The type of massage I teach is gentle technique combining elements of Indian and Swedish massage techniques with reflexology whilst primarily focusing on connection between infant and carer.

What to expect in the class

The classes cover:
- Benefits of massage
- Use of oils
- Consent and infant cues
- Different massage techniques
-Massage for specific needs (eg. colic, torticollis, prematurity etc.)
- Lymphatic drainage
- Positive touch methodology
- Massage as your infant grows
-Skin to skin/ Kangaroo care

Who can attend the classes?

Massage classes are best conducted between the ages of 6 weeks and 6 months although massage can be performed for many years as your child develops.
Anyone can learn infant massage but it is best performed by the infant primary or secondary carer (usually the mother(s) or father(s))
If you have multiple babies (ie. twins/ triplets) then please bring them both/all!

Can I bring my other children?

To best enjoy the class it is preferred that you seek alternative care for your other children. HOWEVER if you are comfortable having your child there and you have no other option please contact me and we can discuss this as an option

What if I'm late to the class?

These things happen! Please get there safely and arrive when you can

What if I miss a class?

Unfortunately as we are a small business we cannot provide refunds for missed classes. However we will endeavor to provide a catch up class in one of the other massage class series and/ or provide handouts of the sessions missed

Did you mention morning tea...?

YES! At each class a nutritious morning tea is provided alongside a weekly herbal tea blend as well as the option to have that all important caffeine fix with a coffee pod machine on hand. Alternative milks available and allergies catered for (just let me know in advance)

What should I wear?

Whatever you are comfortable in, come in PJs if you want! You may like to have a loose fitting or stretchy top as we will finish each class with a beautiful relaxation period during which you hold your baby skin to skin. It's also preferable to have short nails so as not to scratch baby's skin during massage

What if my baby is asleep/ just fed/ not in the mood for massage?

Dolls are provided for you to learn on and you can practice o your infant at home at a time that suits you/ then. Considering optimal massage time and environment as well as assessing your infants readiness is all part of the course content so you can feel comfortable assessing this at home and every participant is given a handout of the sessions learning to take away with them as well as a small bottle of oil

What is I/ my baby have additional needs?

I endeavour for cater for all need, both physical and otherwise. If you have concerns or queries please reach out via the contact page and we can work together to adapt the class as needed. All teaching facilities are wheelchair/ pram accessible with parking close by.

What is I/ my baby has an allergy or skin sensitivity?

The oil used for massage is organic, cold pressed apricot kernel oil with a low likelihood of irritation or allergic reaction. However the first class does include a skin patch test before we begin using oil in the second class.

What if my baby cries/ vomits/ poops?

Yep babies do that. As a mum of 3 I am completely un-fazed by anything that happens in class! I aim for a relaxed environment where everyone feels comfortable to be themselves. If you need to take a cuddle break then please do so, nappy changing facilities are available and vomits can be wiped up. No biggie x

What do I need to bring?

Yourself and your baby

I provide:
- All oils
-Mats/ Blankets/ Rugs/ Muslins/Towels
- Morning Tea

The safety stuff

- I am police checked
- I have a WWCC
- I have a CPR and first aid certificate
- Consent is sought before photos taken and posted to socials
- Even if you consent to media. I will NEVER post a photo that includes your child’s genitalia
- All participants must only take photos of themselves and their own child.
- All reusable materials (pillows, mats, cups etc.) are washed after each class
- All hot drinks served will have a lid on to prevent burns
- Food allergies/ intolerances are catered for (please contact me if you have concerns)

How to find us

Kilaben Bay Community Hall:
132a Kilaben Bay Road. Located on the west side of Lake Macquarie in the leafy suburb of Kilaben Bay between Carey Bay and Rathmines.
Parking is on the street or next door (at the playground) and there is a short path (20metres) to get to the hall. On wet days you may like to bring an umbrella to get to the hall from the car.

I'm keen! Where do I sign up?

Click on the Get Started button below to send me an email or complete your details on the contact page. I will then send you a link to an online registration form and how to pay. Once you have returned the form and your payment has been processed you are enrolled in the class
Look forward to seeing you for your first class!