They are not old enough to take their first steps but these babies can get checked into a luxurious day spa.
Baby Spa has opened its doors in Melbourne for the first time, offering a sanctuary for tots as young as weeks old with hydrotherapy and gentle massage sessions.
Starting their schedule with a spa treatment, infants are supported by a flotation device as they bob around with their heads just above the water for 30 minutes.
Baby Spa opens its doors in Melbourne, offering a sanctuary for tots as young as weeks old
After their spa session, the babies enjoy an indulgent massage, given by trained therapists
‘Baby spa is what we like to call the fourth trimester,’ owner Breanne Marquis told 9NEWS.
‘Being able to feel back like they’re in the womb and being in an open body of water really prepares them and their development for being able to be ready for swimming lessons.’
Babies are closely watched as they move around freely in a temperature-controlled neonatal water pod.
A visit to the spa, which is exclusively for infants, costs $85 per session or $720 for a package of 10 treatments.
The pampering for tots have become increasingly popular – as parents claim the experience helps improves sleep quality for children.
Babies are closely watched as they float in a temperature-controlled neonatal water pod
Starting their schedule with a spa treatment, infants are supported by a flotation device as they bob around with their heads just above the water for 30 minutes
Mother Carrie Bartonek said she noticed her baby son ‘settles better and his tummy times improved’ since joining the spa.
After their hydrotherapy session, the babies enjoy an indulgent massage, given by specialised therapists.
‘We have midwives who are highly trained and they’re able to offer advice and care for parents who sometimes don’t have that support around them,’ Ms Marquis said.
Not only does the treatment offer relaxation, Ms Marquis said other benefits includes development of senses, strengthening of muscles and bones – and building confidence in the water.
Owner Breanne Marquis said the experience ‘prepares’ babies for swimming lessons
Not only does the treatment offer relaxation, other benefits includes development of senses, strengthening of muscles and bones – and building confidence in the water
The concept was founded in London in 2005 by Laura Sevenus – a former professional swimmer who created the floating devices.
While the flotation device may look uncomfortable, they say it provides space for the ears and cheeks while supporting an infant comfortably in water.
Last year, Sisters Kavita Kumar, 36, and Anita Yap, 34, opened Australia’s first Baby Spa in Perth, with tots young as two days old visiting.
There are plans to roll out more Baby Spas, with one more opening up in Melbourne before hitting Sydney.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted Baby Spa Melbourne for comment.