Massage

Requirement:

EYFS 2021 > Child protection > 3.4; 3.5

EYFS 2021 > Staff qualifications, training, support and skills > 3.21

Baby massage is thought to have many benefits for the child. These can include less crying, better sleeping, aiding digestion and providing comfort. It can also help develop a bond between carer and baby.

Procedure (how we will put the policy into practice)

Parents/guardians will need to agree to this policy in order for us to incorporate baby massage into the care we provide for their child. Only approved, qualified assistants will be allowed to provide baby/child massage.

Timing of baby massage

A good time to massage a baby is between feeds and when the baby is not too tired. We will carry out baby massage when we can give the baby our complete attention.

We will carry out baby massage in accordance with our training. This will include:

• Ensuring the room is sufficiently warm
• Laying the baby on a changing mat covered with a towel, with the baby keeping his/her nappy on
• Putting on calm music
• Using a suitable oil that parents are happy with and has been skin-patch tested on the baby
• Massaging the baby for up to 20 minutes, or until he/she is showing signs that she/he has had enough

Record keeping

We have a separate “Massage” file where we keep a record of which child received baby massage and at what time. We will also notify the parent of the massage when they come to pick-up their child.

These records are available for parents to inspect.

In line with our Child Protection and Photography policies, we will never record the massage carried out by way of photographs or video.

Review date: 31 December 2025