AAIMH NSW Event:

Infant Massage as a Relational Practice Supporting Co-regulation and Connection

Overview

Infant massage is often viewed as a technique for promoting relaxation, sleep or physical comfort. Yet its greatest contribution may lie elsewhere. Rather than focusing on massage techniques, this presentation explores infant massage as a practical relational intervention through which parents can practise attunement, responsiveness, co-regulation and connection with their baby. Drawing on contemporary research and concepts familiar within infant mental health, including synchrony, serve-and-return interactions and parental sensitivity, we will consider how cue-based infant massage can support the parent-infant relationship and strengthen parental confidence. The session will explore where infant massage fits within the broader infant mental health landscape, what current evidence suggests about its role in supporting families, and why this simple, everyday activity continues to attract growing interest as a practical tool for fostering connection and emotional wellbeing in the early years.

Speaker

Heidi McLoughlin is the Founder and Director of the Infant Massage Information Service (IMIS), an Australian organisation specialising in infant massage education, professional training and support. She is the author of the IMIS Infant Massage Training Manual and has worked exclusively in the field of infant massage for more than 28 years. Under her leadership, IMIS has trained and supported thousands of infant massage professionals throughout Australia and internationally. Her work focuses on helping parents and practitioners understand the role of nurturing touch, parent-infant interaction and responsive caregiving in early development and family wellbeing.

Event Details

When:      Wednesday, 1st July 2026 | 7:00–8:00 AEST PM | Online
Cost:        Free for AAIMH members | $15 for non-members
Register:  https://www.trybooking.com/DNCWM