(If you prefer you can see my Video Review by using the link at the bottom of this post)

I used some basic massage with my son when he was a baby but I often felt unsure about what techniques to use. When I heard about Lullaby Massage- Rhyme and Touch Massage for Infants and Children I immediately contacted Dr. Hart to see if I could review her new book. She was generous enough to send me a copy and I am so grateful. This is the massage book I wish I had had when my son was a baby.

The past few days I have been using some of these techniques with him (he is now 4). I was pleasantly surprised how quickly he took to it. I did the whole routine of 12 massages in order one evening before bed. He was very interested in the book and in the rhymes. We did a few sessions on his stuffed animals and then did each other’s feet. The next day we were driving in the car and he asked me, “Mommy, what was the toothpaste massage?” We recited it together while he massaged his fingers in the carseat. Then he asked “What was the one with the numbers?” Luckily I remembered, and we did that one also.

The idea to combine rhymes and massage is brilliant. I know that my son would not think of just doing a massage but making it into a game is a wonderful way to work it into our day. The rhymes are enchanting and memorable. In the bath last night my son asked “Mommy, what was the fish in the Amazon rhyme?” I got the book and we did the massage in the tub which made bathtime more fun.

What I love about this book is that it is not all or nothing. Dr. Hart is wonderfully encouraging. She has wonderful tips on how to integrate massage into your day with your child whether you want to use the entire 12 massage routine or just one or two techniques. The book is structured really well and has a fantastic spiral binding so it will lay flat on a bed while you are learning the techniques and rhymes. There is also a downloadable recording of the rhymes that you get for free so you can listen to the proper rhythms, pacing and cadences.

Because I am a singer I was a bit disappointed that there were no actual songs but the rhymes are so lyrical that they are easy to fit to an impromptu melody. The fact that they are spoken is, of course, a plus if you do not enjoy singing.

I give this book a huge Lullaby Link thumbs up. If you are looking for a soothing way to bond and connect with your infant or child and help them to relax or sleep then this is the book for you.
Lullaby Massage Video Book Review by Amy

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