Free Program Teaches Infant Massage to Families

When Cori Burke and Abraham Feinberg of Prescott had their first child, Emma, they were committed to learning all they could about parenting. “Just because we both have college degrees doesn’t mean we know everything about kids,” said Burke.

To help them learn all they could, the new parents enrolled in Parents as Teachers, a home visiting program of Arizona’s Children Association funded by First Things First. Through the completely free program, the family receives home visits every two weeks from their parent educator, Lorina McCabe, who assesses Emma’s development, teaches Cori and Abraham activities to promote Emma’s health and learning, and connects them to any other resources they may need.  “One of the best things about Parents as Teachers is that it gives you preemptive information to prepare for and support the development of your child,” said Burke.



Cori Burke (left) practices infant massage on her 4-month-old daughter

Emma with the guidance of parent educator Lorina McCabe.

 

Lorina McCabe is currently training to be a certified infant massage teacher so that can share it with the families she visits and eventually offer free classes to the community. However, before she can obtain her full certification, McCabe needs to teach infant massage to five families. Cori Burke gladly agreed to learn. “We had heard about infant massage and wanted to try it,” said Burke.

“Infant Massage helps baby and parent to read each other’s cues,” said McCabe. “It also helps with bonding, calming the baby, and helping the baby fall asleep.” McCabe added that infant massage also helps the baby with myelination, a process that builds brain connection efficiency.

“Now that we’re practicing infant massage, we really like it. It’s a way to be present and do something for your baby,” said Burke.

McCabe was able to learn infant massage from Infant Massage Specialist Olga Morris, who graciously offered to teach her at no cost. “Parents as Teachers does great work with families,” said Olga Morris.  “I offered Lorina a scholarship because I want home visitors like her to be trained so that they can bring infant massage directly to the home.”

Soon, Lorina McCabe will be offering free Infant Massage classes for all interested parents and caregivers of infants age 12 months and under,which she hopes will gives parents an opportunity to come together and learn something meaningful. To find out more about Parents as Teachers or to sign up for an upcoming class, please call 1-888-771-3435 X 2026.