While the world is practicing “social distancing”, and we are required as much as possible to stay at home, what a wonderful time to focus instead on the close and intimate connections between parents and babies!  

Infant massage is a time-honored tradition throughout the world and children who receive nurturing touch through  massage often demonstrate many benefits including:

• sleeping more deeply and for longer periods
• improving digestion and elimination
• increasing bonding and attachment to parents and family members
• improving their ability to calm and regulate 
• improving communication skills
• increasing the connections in their brain and their ability to learn

Additionally, parents and caregivers who use infant massage techniques with their child usually experience:

• decreased levels of stress and increased feelings of well-being and relaxation
• improved understanding of their child’s signals and communication
• increased confidence in their parenting skills
• increased bonding with their child

Infant Massage is about calming and connecting, for the baby, for the parents, and with each other.  

The International Association of Infant Massage has developed a new program which allows instructors to provide  virtual classes during the global pandemic.  Marcfirst Pediatric Therapy is pleased to offer this program to  families in our first Infant Massage Connections Class.  During this class you will enjoy intimate time learning with and nurturing your baby, have the opportunity to connect with the instructor and other parents, enjoy thoughtful conversation and information about child development, and be able to enjoy time together in a group experience as we navigate through this pandemic together.  

The first series of classes will be held twice per week on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30-10am beginning June 9^th  and ending July 2^nd.  

If you are interested in signing up for Infant Massage Connections classes, please fill out this form or contact Mary at: [email protected] or by calling (309) 452-0069 x108.

About the Author:

Mary Lehman, LCSW, DT, CEIM has provided therapeutic and educational services for children and families for over 25 years. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a credentialed Developmental Therapist, and a Certified Educator of Infant Massage. She is on the board of the Illinois Infant Mental Health Association. Mary has worked at Marcfirst Pediatric Therapy (formerly SPICE) since 2007, and enjoys the Marcfirst team atmosphere. She loves working with children and connecting with families! Mary has been a foster parent for many years. She also enjoys spending time with friends, family, and her pets; learning; gardening; music; and arts & crafts.