Who is best suited to administer infant massage?

The most suitable person to administer infant massage is a parent or guardian. This choice is grounded in several important aspects of infant development and the parent-child relationship.

Infant massage is not only about the physical technique; it also significantly enhances bonding between the parent or guardian and the child. When a parent or guardian performs massage, it promotes skin-to-skin contact, which is vital for the emotional and psychological development of the infant. It helps to strengthen the attachment and trust between the parent and the child, fostering a nurturing environment.

Additionally, parents and guardians are typically more attuned to their infant's cues and needs, allowing them to adjust the massage techniques according to the child’s reactions and comfort level. This individualized approach is crucial because every infant has different sensitivities and preferences that can be better recognized by someone who knows them best.

While professionals such as massage therapists, childcare providers, or pediatric nurses may be trained in techniques for infant massage, the emotional connection and familiarity a parent or guardian has with their child make them uniquely qualified to provide this form of care. Such ongoing, positive interaction is especially beneficial for the infant's social and emotional health, highlighting the importance of the familial bond in the context of infant development.