Simple Arm Sequence

Here are the pictures accompanying the simple arm sequence for the rhyme OPEN-SHUT THEM in the Good Morning Sequence. I usually perform this sequence after bb Gloria's morning bath and take a chance to wipe her armpits dry, when her arms are stretched out wide! I also sing a slow rhyme to accompany the actions - the words of the rhyme are in CAPITALS.

Benefits of this sequence:
Helps babies to open their chest, expand their lungs and encourage deeper breathing. Newborn babies are naturally quite closed in their upper body, as they have been curled tightly in the womb. This simple sequence will help to uncurl their upper body.

Babies who have been resisting upper body massage or dislike stretching their arms out will benefit from this especially. Most babies love the little cuddle at the end of the rhyme and you may see them relaxing their arms more, after a few days of practice.

"OPEN" - Open your baby's arms out wide to the sides. Do not force any of the movements. Gently stretch your baby's arms out as much as she allows, without tension.



"SHUT THEM" - Bring your baby's hands to the centre (chest).






"DON"T GET IN A MUDDLE" - roll your baby's hands in a circle (picture not shown).

Repeat "OPEN-SHUT THEM".











"GIVE YOURSELF A CUDDLE" - Cross your baby's arms on her chest and enjoy a close cuddle together, while gently rocking side to side.