Infant Massage and Bonding

One in ten infants is born preterm in the United States each year, often causing pediatric medical traumatic stress (PMTS) which negatively impacts bonding. Decreasedattachment is directly linked to poor motor development, sleep, and cognition. Infant massage reduces maternal stress, alleviates infant pain, and promotes growth and neurosensory regulation. Early intervention therapists are uniquely positioned to use infant massage to support parental resilience and bonding to increase participation in therapeutic interventions. Find out how infant massage can empower parents to feel competent in caring for their baby and increase bonding.

Target Audience: Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants

Highlights

• Immediately improve infant regulation and developmental outcomes through the application of massage techniques
• Evidence-based interventions to promote bonding and neurosensory development