FAQs
BABY MASSAGE:
'Baby Needs a Feed'
If your baby is hungry before the massage session, it is a good idea to give them a little 'top up' as your baby will not settle or enjoy the massage until their tummy is full. It is still possible to massage a baby even when they have just been fed and even whilst you are feeding! The only area that should not be massaged and needs to be avoided immediately after (or during) feeding is the abdomen.
'Baby is Asleep'
Lots of babies fall asleep before, during or after the massage. This is perfectly normal and babies should be allowed to sleep. If baby falls asleep during class, parents are very welcome to practice on a doll provided by the Baby Massage Therapist or they can take the opportunity to just sit, relax and observe. It's best not to wake a baby up to massage them, as they really don't appreciate having their little dreams disturbed! Just allow your baby to wake up naturally - they usually do this in class once they hear the different noises and smells.
'Immunisations'
It is possible to massage a baby even on the same day they have been immunised. Baby's legs can also still be massaged, but we just avoid the site of the injection. Lots of babies love a massage after their injections as it can really help to calm them down and relax them.
'Dirty Nappy'
Very often babies open their bowels and bladders during a massage session. This is perfectly normal and a very health reaction. It also means that your massage technique is very good and working wonders! Just ensure that you bring plenty of spare nappies, baby wipes and nappy sacks with you - just in case!
'Baby has a Cold'
Even with a cold it is still possible to massage your baby. It very often feels lovely and relaxing to a baby to have their clothes off and to be gently stroked by their parents. Especially if they have been feeling a bit snuffily or hot and bothered. If a baby doesn't want to be massaged, they will certainly let you know! However, it is perhaps best to avoid massaging your baby if their temperature seems a little higher than usual, as they might prefer just to be left alone to sleep.
'Is it possible to bring someone along to the Baby Massage Session?'
Your spouse, partner or the Grandparents are very welcome to attend the Baby Massage sessions with you, but please check with the Baby Massage Therapist first. It is such a lovely activity for family members to get involved in - and baby loves it to!
What if I can’t make it to one of the baby massage sessions?
Often doctors and hospital appointments crop up or baby might be poorly. We offer all families 1 x Flexi Week so that it is possible to attend the session at another venue and parents and babies won’t miss out on any part of the baby massage experience. Please submit a request or enquiry for further information. The ‘Flexi-Week’ applies to the Four Week Luxury Baby Massage Programme only.
Is it OK to massage my premature baby?
Massaging a premature baby can be so very beneficial. All babies enjoy being held and stroked as this tells them that they are loved and wanted and it can help baby adjust to this new and unfamiliar world. For further information please submit an enquiry via the Cherubs website.
Is it OK to massage my baby as she has additional needs?
Massaging a baby with additional needs can be hugely beneficial to parents and baby. All babies enjoy being held and stroked as this tells them that they are loved and wanted and it can help baby adjust to this new and unfamiliar world. For further information please submit an enquiry via the Cherubs website.
Is it possible to massage a baby in a hip harness?
A professionally performed leg massage can be very beneficial for babies who spend a lot of time in hip harnesses because it can help tighten and strengthen the main muscles in the leg and thigh, including the smaller synergistic muscles (helper/support muscles).
Once baby is out of hip harness for several hours a day - the baby massage session offers baby a wonderful free 'kick around' time. For further information please submit an enquiry via the Cherubs website.
Is it possible to massage twins or triplets?
Baby Massage is a wonderful way to calm and bond with your babies and it is indeed possible to attend a Baby Massage Course with twins/triplets. For further information please submit an enquiry via the Cherubs website
What equipment do I need for baby massage classes?
The baby massage sessions are carried out on large mats on the floor therefore it is advisable to wear something comfortable. Please bring a towel to lay your baby on and a couple of spare nappies just in case!
You may find your baby needs a feed before, during or after the massage (breast/formula/follow-on/cooled boiled water) as babies can get very thirsty or hungry from the massage session. Carrier Oils and massage literature will be provided at Class each week.
Workshops:
What do I need to bring to a Workshop?
You are very welcome to bring your babies along to the Baby Sleep Workshop, Weaning & Nutrition Workshop and the Infant First Aid Workshop. A 'play mat' will be set up for babies so that they can have a wriggle around during the session - just bring a little toy for them to play with. Light Refreshments are provided.