"Building Attachment and Promoting Bonding Through Infant Massage for Adoptive and Foster Parents"

Infant massage is a gentle, nurturing touch that has been shown to have numerous benefits for babies, including improved circulation, digestion, and overall well-being. For adoptive and foster parents, infant massage can be a powerful tool for building trust, reducing stress, and enhancing the bond between parent and child.

Research has shown that touch therapy can help regulate the stress response system, reduce cortisol levels, and promote the release of oxytocin, a hormone that is associated with feelings of love, trust, and attachment. By providing a safe and nurturing touch, adoptive and foster parents can help their babies feel more secure and connected, which can have long-lasting effects on their development and well-being.

In addition to the physical benefits, infant massage can also promote emotional well-being for both parent and child. For adoptive and foster parents, the process of bonding with a new baby can be challenging, especially when the child has experienced trauma or neglect. Infant massage can help ease the transition by providing a calming and nurturing experience that promotes feelings of safety and security.

For babies who have experienced trauma or neglect, infant massage can be especially beneficial. Research has shown that touch therapy can help regulate the stress response system, reduce cortisol levels, and promote the release of oxytocin, a hormone that is associated with feelings of love, trust, and attachment. By providing a safe and nurturing touch, adoptive and foster parents can help their babies feel more secure and connected, which can have long-lasting effects on their development and well-being.

As an adoptive parent, I have seen firsthand the benefits of infant massage. When we first brought our daughter home, she was understandably anxious and unsure of her new surroundings. By incorporating infant massage into our daily routine, I was able to provide her with a sense of comfort and security. It allowed us to bond in a way that felt natural and intuitive, even though we were still getting to know each other.

Infant massage can also be a helpful tool for adoptive and foster parents who may be struggling with their own feelings of anxiety or stress. Caring for a new baby can be overwhelming, especially when there are added challenges such as navigating the adoption process or dealing with the aftermath of trauma. By taking the time to connect with their baby through massage, parents can also take care of their own emotional needs and build resilience for the journey ahead.

When practicing infant massage, it is important to choose a time when your baby is calm and alert, such as after a bath or feeding. Use gentle strokes and be mindful of your baby's cues, such as whether they are enjoying the massage or becoming overstimulated. Remember that the goal of infant massage is to create a nurturing and calming experience for both parent and child.

In conclusion, infant massage is a powerful tool for promoting bonding and attachment between adoptive and foster parents and their babies. By providing a safe and nurturing touch, parents can help their babies feel more secure and connected, which can have lasting effects on their development and well-being. As an adoptive parent, I have seen firsthand the benefits of infant massage and encourage others to explore this practice as a way to connect with their new child.

Becca Robinson, LMT, CIMC, Doula