Skill· 4mo–6mo· 2 min

Clock's Hands Tummy Massage

Parent gently massages baby's tummy in a clockwise motion to help relieve gas or constipation discomfort. The agent coaches the parent to observe baby's relaxation response, physical comfort cues, and bonding during this soothing, caregiving interaction.

Start voice activity

Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.

What you'll need

Baby lying on back on a soft, flat surface (like a play mat or bed). Room should be warm and calm. Baby should be alert but not right after feeding. No materials needed.

How it works

  1. 1~30s

    Start by warming your hands and placing your left hand gently on your child's tummy. Use slow, firm pressure and begin massaging in a clockwise circle — imagine you're tracing the hands of a clock around their belly button. Watch your child's face and body closely. Does they seem to relax into the touch? You might see their muscles soften, their breathing slow, or a little sigh. Tell me what you notice.

    Watch for: Baby shows signs of relaxation and comfort in response to caring touch.

  2. 2~40s

    Now, as you continue the clockwise circles with your left hand, gently place your right hand on your child's tummy too — think of it like the clock's other hand, maybe around where 7 o'clock would be. Use both hands together in a smooth, coordinated motion. Notice if your child shows any physical comfort cues, like bringing their knees up toward their tummy, passing gas, or making comfortable grunts. These are signs the massage is helping their body. What do you observe?

    Watch for: Baby shows physical signs of digestive comfort or body awareness during the massage.

  3. 3~30s

    Let's complete about six full clockwise circles together. As you massage, maintain gentle eye contact with your child or talk softly to them — you might say, 'I'm here, sweet one,' or sing a little song. Watch for social bonding cues: does your child gaze at you, coo, or smile? This isn't just about the tummy; it's about your child feeling your loving presence during a moment of care. What bonding moments do you see?

    Watch for: Baby engages socially with parent during a caregiving activity, showing trust and connection.

What this develops

Visual example

Coming soon