Support is on the way for parents of gassy and colicky babies. Instead of feeling helpless, use massage as a tool to support your baby during this difficult time.
Instructions
1. Reduce stimulation for your baby by dimming lights and reducing sounds.
2. Help your baby settle down, if upset, with either gentle, rhythmic pats or soft, rhythmic counting.
3. Wait at least 30 minutes after your baby has breast-fed or 1 hour after giving a bottle of formula before beginning massage.
4. Find a position for you that is comfortable. Be aware of your back.
5. Either cradle your baby on a pillow on your lap or position your baby on a towel or blanket in front of you.
6. Start the massage slowly with strokes and exercises, paying close attention to the baby's reaction to the touch and movement.
7. Gently fold the baby's knees up to the tummy (as far as is comfortable), hold for 15 to 30 seconds and release. Stroke legs gently.
8. Gently hold both of the baby's feet and move the legs one at a time, bending at the knees as if riding a bicycle for 30 seconds. Stroke the legs gently.
9. Bend the baby's legs at the knees, cross the legs, and rock side to side. Stroke the legs gently.
10. Comfort the baby before, during or after the massage as needed.
11. Understand that just 5 minutes of massage is a long time for a little baby.
Tags: your baby, , Stroke legs, Stroke legs gently