What duration is often cited for effective interaction during infant massage sessions?

The duration of 5-20 minutes is often cited as the effective timeframe for interactions during infant massage sessions due to several factors related to both the needs of the infant and the objectives of massage itself.

Infants have shorter attention spans and can become easily overstimulated or fatigued during sessions. A duration within this range allows for a balance between providing enough time to engage in beneficial touch and interaction, while also respecting the infant's capacity to process sensory information and maintain comfort. Additionally, shorter sessions can help facilitate bonding and attachment between the caregiver and the infant, as they can focus on the quality of the interaction rather than the quantity of time spent.

The range of 5-20 minutes also accommodates variations in individual infants—some may respond well to a shorter session, while others might enjoy slightly longer interactions. This flexibility is essential in infant massage, highlighting the importance of responsive caregiving that adapts to the infant's cues and needs. Overall, this duration supports both physical and emotional development during a critical period of growth in an infant's life.