The following form the basis of the techniques described in this manual and will be referred to throughout:

Drumming: Using cupped hands and relaxed weight, tapping rhythmically on the front or back of baby’s torso.

Knead: Squeeze and release the soft parts of baby’s body using the whole hand.

Rub: Pressing gently using relaxed weight of the hand backwards and forwards.

Stroke: Moving the hand across the surface of the skin using just relaxed weight of the hands (not pressing but not feather light)

Milking: Using both hands alternately for the same movement.

Always give a relaxed but firm touch. Stroking is very pleasant but does not give all the benefits of a firmer touch. Get mum to ‘develop her touch’ use her whole hand and give a touch that is more than skin deep. One that tells the baby he/she is not made of glass but is resilient loved and wanted.