Exploring infant massage in child health care: An observational study of caregiver–infant interaction and group dynamics

AIM: Infant massage has been suggested as a beneficial approach; however, evidence regarding how it is implemented within routine child health care remains limited. The aim of this observational study was to explore how infant massage education was enacted in a child health care setting, with a focus on infant behavior, caregiver-infant interaction, and group dynamics among caregivers during the sessions. METHODS: A qualitative observational study was conducted in six infant massage groups at three child health centers in Sweden, comprising 14 observed sessions. Data were collected through structured observations and field notes and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: Four categories emerged: infants becoming calm and alert; challenges in maintaining infant attention; enhanced caregiver-infant interaction; and evolving peer dynamics among caregivers. Infants often appeared relaxed and attentive during massage, while caregivers actively engaged in communication and frequently sought infants' consent before continuing the massage. Over time, group interactions among caregivers became more open and supportive. CONCLUSION: Infant massage sessions within child health care may support caregiver-infant interaction while also providing a social context for parental learning and peer support. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Incorporating infant massage into parent education programs may represent a practical strategy for strengthening early relational interactions within routine child health services.