MITTS: Massage for Infants, Toddlers, and Teens

Infant Massage Inspires Parental Confidence Phyllis HanlonMay 11, 2015 MASSAGE Magazine | The arrival of a new baby can provoke both excitement and a bit of fear in even the most confident mom and dad. But in some cases, that confidence may begin to erode as baby cries, fusses, refuses to nurse or demonstrates some other upsetting behavior. While studies have shown that massage can help calm a stressed infant, they also indicate that parental confidence can realize a boost from touch therapy with their baby . Decades-Long Tradition Vimala Schneider McClure, founder of the International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM), witnessed infant massage in an orphanage in India in 1973. The incredible benefits she saw prompted her to found her specialized organization to promote the practice. She points out that infant massage has been an integral part of caregiving tradition in many countries around the globe for decades—and for several good reasons. She asserts

Getting a Massage is Like Trying on a New Dress. I recently signed up for one of those online personal stylist services. When I received my first box of fashion items, I was both excited and nervous.  I was excited because of the possibility of finally becoming the fashionista that I think I am although no one else sees it that way. And, I was nervous because of the possibility that nothing would fit and I just wasted my time and money. That's when it occurred to me. Trying on these clothes for the first time is just like getting a massage for the first time. Here is how I break it down: 1. Expectations: When I received my fashion items, I expected everything to look and fit perfectly. I answered all the questions that my personal stylist asked as completely as possible. I included my size, my preferred style, and information about my lifestyle. If this was a massage, you would expect everything to go perfectly as well. you've filled out a form indicating your preferr