Feasibility and Acceptability of Using FirstPlay® to Enhance Mother–Child Interaction: A pilot study of mothers’ perspectives

BACKGROUND: Although there is evidence that human touch facilitates mother–child bonding, mothers’ understanding of how to connect with and develop the emotional regulation of their babies remains unclear. OBJECTIVES: This study used a Storytelling Massage program to investigate mothers’ experience of practicing reciprocal interactions with their children. Specifically, it explored the efficacy of multi-sensory activities for building healthy parent–child bonds. METHOD: Participants included 12 mothers with children between 8 and 23 months. These mothers participated in a 6-session program on FirstPlay Infant Storytelling-Massage Intervention (FirstPlay Therapy) and attended an individual semi-structured interview after the program. Data were analyzed using a phenomenological approach. RESULTS: The FirstPlay program positively affected the participants’ self-efficacy in parent–child bonding and parenting beliefs. Five themes were identified: “bonding with the child—connect and engage,” “attending to the child’s uniqueness and needs,” “developing a structure and a daily routine,” “feeling calm and relaxed as a person,” and “gaining confidence as a mom.” CONCLUSION: The results of this study further support the need for low-cost, high-impact programs that enhance parent–child interactions. Limitations of this study are discussed. Future research and practical implications are also suggested.