Skill· 4mo–6mo· 2 min
Soothing Tummy Massage
Parent gives baby a gentle tummy massage using specific circular motions to soothe digestion and reduce stomach discomfort. The agent coaches the parent to observe baby's recognition responses, calming to familiar voice, positive reactions to loving touch, and social smiling during this intimate caregiving moment.
Free to do together whenever you like.
What you'll need
Baby lying on back on a soft surface, calm and alert. Room should be warm and quiet. Wait at least 30 minutes after feeding. No materials needed — just your hands.
How it works
The 3-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneRecognizes familiar caregiverHeart· 0mo–10mo· stretch
- MilestoneResponds emotionally to othersHeart· 1mo–13mo· core· Step 4
- MilestoneAlerts or calms to speechMind· 0mo–4mo· core· Step 2
- MilestoneReciprocal social smileHeart· 1mo–4mo· core· Step 4
- MilestoneUses familiar adult to share feelings such as excitement or pleasure, and for ‘emotional refuelling’ when feeling tired, stressed or frustrated.Heart· 0mo–11mo· stretch· Step 2
- MilestoneLooks at a speaking caregiverMind· 1mo–6mo· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneResponds to a speaking personHeart· 0mo–14mo· stretch
- MilestoneEnjoys the company of others and seeks contact with others from birth.Heart· 0mo–11mo· core· Steps 2, 3
- MilestoneLooks at and follows facesHeart· 0mo–12mo· stretch
- MilestoneImitates facial movementsMind· 4mo–8mo· core· Step 4
- MilestoneMakes vowel-like cooing soundsMind· 2mo–4mo· stretch· Step 3
Visual example
Coming soon