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.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
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
- 1~30s
Start by placing both your thumbs gently on your child's navel. Before you begin the massage, make eye contact with them and say something soothing in your familiar voice — maybe 'Hi sweetie, I'm going to help your tummy feel better.' Then gently press your thumbs outward toward their sides. Watch your child's face closely. Does they seem to recognize you and understand this is a loving gesture from someone they knows and trusts?
Watch for: Baby shows recognition of parent through facial expression, eye contact, or body response to familiar voice and touch.
- 2~35s
Now continue the massage with slow, gentle strokes from the center outward. As you massage, keep talking to your child in your calm, familiar voice. You might describe what you're doing — 'Nice gentle circles for your tummy.' Watch your child's body and face. Does they seem to relax or calm when hearing your voice? Notice any tension releasing in their limbs or a softening of their expression.
Watch for: Baby shows visible calming or relaxation in response to parent's familiar voice during the massage.
- 3~40s
For the final part, make five complete circles — starting at the navel, moving outward, and returning to center. Make each stroke a clear loving gesture — slow, intentional, full of care. Watch how your child responds to this nurturing touch. Does they smile, coo, or show other positive reactions? Does they make eye contact and smile back when you smile? This is about the emotional exchange, not just the physical massage.
Watch for: Baby shows positive emotional response to parent's loving touch and caregiving gestures.