Bonding with Baby:
Parent and Baby Class
Come join this 5 week series of infant-parent classes focused on how to use safe touch, incorporating infant massage techniques, to support your infants’ emotional well-being!
Dates for 2025: May 9, May 16, May 23, May 30, June 13
Time: 10am - 11am
Location: 1175 Wilson St E Suite 2b, Ancaster, ON L8S 4K6
Max capacity: 10 dyads (10 parents, 10 babies)
What to Expect
join us for a relaxing, fun, and informative infant massage class designed for parents and babies to bond and connect emotionally through touch and conversation.
There are a total of 5 weeks in the series and each week we will go over a different technique and discuss related topics to the physical and mental health benefits of touch for the child, parent, and family!
Our certifying instructor, Laura Archer MSW, will guide you through gentle techniques to help soothe your little one and promote bonding and relaxation. This series is designed for babies 12 months old and younger.
The sessions are offered in a 5 weeks series, aligning with the delivery model of the International Association of Infant Massage.
The classes will be in-person in Waterdown or Ancaster (check event calendar for offerings). Handouts and Massage oil included.
Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity to learn how to massage your baby in a supportive and welcoming environment.
Classes are delivered by Laura Archer, who is a Registered Social Worker. Coverage through Extended Health Benefits may apply. Please confirm you have group class/workshop coverage through your Insurance Benefits if you would like to access your benefit coverage.
Weekly Overview
Week 1
Introduction (including relaxation techniques, consent, overview); Topic and Discussion: Behavioural States
Week 2
Review of relaxation technique, consent, legs massage and introduction of stomach strokes. Topic and Discussion: Attunement, Infant Cues and Crying
Week 4
Review of relaxation technique, consent, previous massage strokes and Introduction of face and back. Topic and Discussion: Connecting with your growing child through touch and massage and the mental health benefits of touch.
Week 3
Review of relaxation technique, consent, previous massage strokes and introduction of chest and arm strokes.
Topic and Discussion: Benefits of Infant Massage to parents, baby, siblings, and other trusted caregivers
Week 5
Review of relaxation techniques, consent, and completion of full massage practice.
Topic and Discussion: Gentle Movements and Co-Regulation through Gentle Touch.
For more information on the benefits of infant massage to you and your baby please visit the IAIM website here: https://www.iaim-aimbcanada.org/pages/benefits
Coverage may be available under your extended health insurance. Please confirm with your insurance provider that you have coverage for social work groups to confirm if your cost can be covered.