Q Can I massage my baby when he has his clothes on?
A Yes, particularly if he is newborn and if you feel both of you would like to be introduced to the massage strokes slowly. But do try and progress to removing
his clothes. Children gain from any positive touch, but skin-toskin contact – your bare hands against your baby’s skin – is the most beneficial.
Q Should I continue to massage my baby if he has a cold or fever?
A Avoid massaging your child if he has a fever or cold. Many children do not want a massage when unwell, but enjoy lots of reassuring strokes and cuddles.
Q If my child has a cut or a bruise, should I stop massaging her?
A Avoid the bruised or cut area, which may be sore and painful to the touch. If your baby has a scar, do not massage the area until the scar has healed. But do continue to massage other areas of her body.
Q My baby has eczema. Can I massage him?
A Yes you can. Use a natural oil, such as olive or sunflower oil, to moisturize your baby’s skin. Choose organic oil if possible. If his skin is cracked or broken, do not
massage the area until it has healed.
Q Is massage recommended for asthmatic children?
A An asthmatic child can benefit from massage, especially if the condition is stress or anxiety related. Massage may help her to relax, which could prevent asthma
attacks or reduce their severity. Never massage your child during an attack, but do give her reassuring strokes on her arms, legs or head to help her feel less frightened.
Q Can I use essential oils to massage my baby?
A It is not advisable to use essential (aromatherapy) oils on babies or young children. Few essential oils are suitable, and those that are should be diluted in a base oil. Never use any essential oil on your child unless instructed by a
trained aromatherapist.
Q My child has very sensitive skin and is allergic to washing powders and soaps. Is it safe to use oil? What type of oil should I use?
A A natural oil is less likely to irritate sensitive skin than a synthetic variety. Select a light oil such as sunflower or apricot oil, choosing an organic variety if
available.The more naturally the oil is produced, the better. Before using any oil, make sure you carry out a patch test on your child to ensure she is not sensitive to the oil you choose.
Q My baby is allergic to nuts.Will she be affected if I massage her
with a nut oil?
A Do not use a nut oil under any circumstances as it may well affect your child.Try a natural oil such as grape-seed or olive oil. Some vegetable oils may contain
nut products, so before using any oil, make absolutely certain that it is free of these. If the ingredients label is unclear, contact the manufacturer for further
information. Once you have chosen an oil, make sure you perform a patch test on your baby to eliminate the possibility of sensitivity. If you have any doubts, massage your baby without oil – it is the loving touch you give her that is most
important.
Q My baby has recently had surgery. Is it safe to massage her?
A Check with your surgeon before massaging your baby post-operatively. In many cases,once a child has recovered from surgery, massage is very beneficial to the baby and her parents.The touch is soothing to the child, and massaging their baby helps parents overcome anxieties about handling an infant in a delicate state.Avoid
massaging the general area of the operation until the scar has healed – your doctor can give you more advice on this.
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