This post about why babies need touch is sponsored by JOHNSON’S®; opinions stated are my own.
Why Babies Need Touch
Did you know that touch is the first sense babies develop?
Babies start to receive stimulation by touch while still in the womb, and through the first three years of life, every touch helps shape a baby’s brain development.
Research shows that babies and young children who don’t receive consistent physical and emotional interaction are at higher risk for:
- developmental delays
- behavior problems in later years
- trouble adapting in social situations
- increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can lead to health issues
Benefits of Touch for Development
- Touch is so important that some consider skin to be the external nervous system.
- Babies are dependent on touch for exploring the world.
- In addition to baby’s genes, the brain develops and organizes as a reflection of developmental experience.
Ways to Incorporate Healthy Touch
When speaking to your baby
When speaking to your baby, if you add a soft touch, you’ll be sure to get their attention. It also helps strengthen the bonding experience and deepens communication.
This is actually a technique I use with both of my daughters (ages 2 and 8). I’ve found that a gentle touch when speaking to them helps them focus on me, even in a room full of distractions.
Bathtime
A bath is one of the best ways to relax a baby and incorporate touch therapy. It is also a wonderful way to comfort a sick baby during cold season. When our little one has a bug, a warm bath helps clear her airways and brighten her spirits.
Bath time is actually a delight for all of your baby’s senses, and can help you and your baby become more comfortable with each other.
I love JOHNSON’S® HEAD-TO-TOE™ extra moisturizing baby wash because it has 10 times more moisturizers than the original formula. When used with JOHNSON’S® HEAD-TO-TOE™ extra moisturizing baby cream after bath, your baby’s skin stays soft and hydrated for up to 24 hours. It is also gentle enough to use on sensitive skin.
Massage
The benefits of massage therapy for your baby are huge:
- stimulates the release of the feel-good hormone oxytocin
- aids in brain and emotional development
- soothes and may reduce time crying
Massage may also help your baby sleep better — something that all parents want to hear!
After bath is the perfect time for a massage, but you can do any time of day. Gently work JOHNSON’S® HEAD-TO-TOE™ extra moisturizing baby cream into baby’s skin. Soft, even strokes can help calm your baby before bed, and also provides crucial opportunity for development.
I feel confident using JOHNSON’S® because they are the #1 baby skin care brand, providing quality products for over 120 years. 96% of moms surveyed said using JOHNSON’S® HEAD-TO-TOE™ extra moisturizing skin care routine was an enjoyable, fun and memorable moment for them and their baby.
Learn more about the JOHNSON’S® Bath Time Routine and how to use it to incorporate the positive benefits of touch in your baby’s life.
Stacey aka the Soccer Mom
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Last updated on February 9th, 2019 at 06:22 pm
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