The International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM) was founded by Vimala McClure in 1986. It is a global organisation and the world-class standard for the training and teaching of baby massage.
The IAIM has international presence and has representatives in over 50 countries worldwide. The IAIM has trained infant massage Instructors who are passionate about ensuring every baby receives nurturing touch as a fundamental birth right. As Certified Infant Massage Instructors we believe and support the IAIM founder Vimala McClure’s vision and the IAIM’s mission which is to:
‘promote nurturing touch and communication through training, education and research; so parents, caregivers and children are loved, valued and respected throughout the world community.’
What is baby Massage?
Baby massage is a longstanding parenting tradition in many cultures, including Indian and African, and was introduced to the western world during the last 30 years. It has become increasingly popular over the last decade as more parents see the benefits of loving touch.
Baby massage is when a parent or primary carer lovingly strokes or holds their baby. Using a high quality non-fragranced vegetable oil, soothing holds and rhythmic strokes are given on each area of baby's body, following a sequence that has been developed over many years. Baby massage offers a wonderful experience and a special time to communicate both verbally and non-verbally with babies, so that they feel loved, valued and respected.
The IAIM baby massage course draws from both the Indian and Swedish massage traditions, as well as incorporating principles from yoga and reflexology.
The 5 Week Programme is run over 5 weeks, one session per week for 1.5 hours long.
Sessions are run in groups of up to 10 parents and babies or on a one to one basis in private sessions if preferred in your own home.
Baby Massage is suitable from birth up to Age 1.
Benefits of baby massage include the encouragement of secure attachment, bonding, reduced crying, relief from wind, constipation and colic as well as calmer temperaments and better sleep.
You will feel closer to your baby, gain a greater understanding of your baby’s behaviour through theoretical learning, spend one to one time with baby, meet other parents and learn life-long parenting skills.