0mo–11mo10 minQuiet timeRestSelf-care
Nurturing Baby Massage Routine
A short, cue-led baby massage (or gentle touch) routine that helps your child feel nurtured and settled, with simple steps you can repeat at home and share with other caregivers.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a soft towel or blanket
- a comfortable, warm place to sit with your child safely supported (arms, lap, or lying safely on a mat with supervision)
- clean, warm hands (wash and dry first)
Nice to have
- a soft muslin cloth
- a quieter/dimmer space (if available)
- a tiny amount of unscented baby-safe lotion you already use (optional)
Movement level: false
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneSeeks caregiver comfortHeart· 0mo–12mo· core
- MilestoneMakes early non-cry soundsMind· 0mo–3mo· core· Step 4
- MilestoneEnjoys the company of others and seeks contact with others from birth.Heart· 0mo–11mo· core· Steps 2, 3, 4
- MilestoneCalms with caregiver soothingHeart· 0mo–3mo· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneCries to communicate needsMind· 0mo–2mo· stretch· Steps 2, 3
What it practices
- Responds to and thrives on warm, sensitive physical contactObservable behaviour from Development Matters
- Expresses discomfort, hunger or thirst.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Laughs and gurgles, e.g. shows pleasure at being tickled and other physical interactions.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Trained staff can introduce baby massage sessions that make young babies feel nurtured and promote a sense of well-being. Involving parents helps them to use this approach at home.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)