Center for
Integrative BodyWork™
Achieving Balance Within
Parent-Infant Massage class, as offered by the Center, follows a process that is developed and promoted by the International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM) and Infant Massage USA. There are various methods of learning Parent-Infant Massage but the original source derives from Vimala McClure. McClure integrated aspects of Swedish massage and Indian massage into a comprehensive, yet simple, process. More than just learning how to massage your infant, the IAIM has a much broader scope of concern as relates to the process of caregiver-infant touch.
IAIM Mission Statement:
“The purpose of the IAIM is to promote nurturing touch and communication through training, education and research so that parents, caregivers and children are loved, valued and respected throughout the world community.”
Parent-Infant Massage is taught from a multi-faceted perspective. It educates caregivers on the techniques of infant massage, develops a focused and nurturing communication method between caregiver and infant, develops a sense of respect for appropriate touch and establishes a natural method to enhance the overall wellness of both the caregiver and the infant.
There is a great deal of solid research that establishes a lengthy list of infant massage benefits. These benefits apply to any infant and any birthing situation and include all aspects of development such as physical, mental, emotional, and communicative. Many hospitals are now including infant massage as part of standard treatment for at-risk infants in the neo-natal intensive care units. Although philosophically broad in scope, Parent-Infant Massage has been developed with specific intent to provide benefits to the infant, caregiver, family and society. Our Western society is one of the few that does not practice massage, especially infant massage, as a routine part of life.
Center Parent-Infant Massage class is conducted by a Certified Educator of Infant Massage (CEIM) who is also Internationally Certified as an Infant Massage Instructor (CIMI). Click here for more info about your instructor
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Upcoming Class Schedule
Parent-Infant Massage Training
Monday Evenings
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
9/8; 9/15; 9/22; 9/29; 10/6 This time only - Free
Class size is limited to 5 registrants
Classes are congenial and informal and the Center setting is ideal for this type of activity. The instruction sequence consists of 5 - 90 minute class sessions held over five consecutive weeks, one evening per week. The age of infant can range from newborn to 1 year of age. Exceptions can be made for infants / children with disabilities. Lotion is provided and there is nothing for you to bring other than a few pillows, blankets, something that your infant may enjoy handling and a desire to learn. The classes are very hands on and you should bring your infant with you to the first session. Couples, Grandparents, and other caregivers are welcome to attend.
Although not required, we will have available for purchase, Infant Massage, A Handbook for Loving Parents, by Vimala McClure, which is a nice reference for the course. Beginning with the first session, you will be massaging your own infant. The course is designed to immediately teach functional techniques and after the first class you will be able to start using what you have learned with your infant. The class is a very baby friendly environment! Crying, fussing, breast/bottle feeding is welcome and expected.
We are certain you will enjoy this time with your infant and it will help enhance a bond that will last a lifetime.
