GiGi’s Playhouse, Trine University partner to offer parents of babies with Down syndrome infant massage training program - 21Alive

[Alexander Bullock , Eddie Reksiedler]

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA) - GiGi’s Playhouse and Trine University’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program are partnering to offer parents of babies with Down syndrome an infant massage training program.

The program, called ‘GiGiFIT Infant,’ will be offered every Friday between April 11 and May 16 at 11 a.m. at GiGi’s Playhouse’s North Clinton Street location.

“We are offering a series of six classes that families can attend to learn infant massage in addition to infant development education,” said Dr. Brenda Prosser, OT, Doctoral Capstone Coordinator and Assistant Professor for Trine’s OTD program.

“We will cover a variety of massage strokes, important play activities that support development, and benefits of infant massage, just to name a few.”

For more information or to register, contact GiGi’s Playhouse at (260) 482-7529 or visit gigisplayhouse.org/fortwayne/sfcalendar.

Prosser, who has collaborated with GiGi’s Playhouse for about three years in various roles, says the idea for the program came from discussions with GiGi’s Playhouse staff about programs that could benefit individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

With no programs specifically for infants at the organization, Prosser say GiGiFIT Infant will provide families a needed resource and an opportunity to network.

“I am a Certified Educator of Infant Massage (CEIM) and have a Neonatal Touch and Massage Certification (NTMC) and enjoy sharing infant massage education with parents,” Prosser said.

“This program will allow me to continue sharing that education and give parents a wonderful tool to support the development of their infant.”

Prosser will instruct parents, who will massage their infant in class. Trine University’s OTD students will also be involved.

“This program will provide students an opportunity to learn about infant massage and hopefully inspire them to seek additional training and certifications related to infant massage,” Prosser said. “They will also assist with collecting data and educating parents on the various educational topics.”

More information about GiGi’s Playhouse and its GiGiFIT Infant massage training program can be found at GiGi's Playhouse | Down Syndrome Achievement Centers

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