​Infant Massage
The BART (Bonding and Relaxation Technique) Method of infant massage was developed by Evelyn Guyer, specifically to meet the needs of infants and children with special needs AND their parents! Her goal was to provide a way for parents of children with disabilities to interact, connect and bond with their child. However, this method applies to all infants and children, not just those with special needs. Infant Massage is delivered in a package of five, one-on-one sessions, that are approximately 30 minutes long.
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CONDITIONS THAT BENEFIT FROM BART MASSAGE INCLUDE:
Traumatic birth history
Prematurity
Birth addictions
Neglect, Abuse, Lack of Bonding
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Infantile spasms/Seizures
Motor delays/Sensory Dysfunction/Poor self regulation
Failure to thrive/feeding difficulties
Cystic Fibrosis
Cerebral Palsy
Down Syndrome
Stroke or Traumatic Brain Injury
Brain Malformations ( HIE, Arnold-Chiari, Cerebellar Hypoplasia, Corpus Callosum Agenesis)
Cancer
PTSD
Anxiety
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BENEFITS OF BART MASSAGE FOR THE CHILD INCLUDE:
Sensory organization
Improved self regulation
Assists with environmental or caregiver “adjustment” periods
Improved oral-motor function
Enhanced feeding
Vestibular organization
Motor development/Body awareness
Improved communication
Better eye contact
Builds trust
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BENEFITS OF BART MASSAGE FOR THE PARENT INCLUDE:
Sets aside specific special time with child
Increased confidence in parenting skills
Strengthens parent ability to “communicate” with their child​
Parent/Caregiver relaxation
Family bonding
Acceptance of child
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