Name: Clare Wastell
Lives: Colchester, Essex
What do you teach? Infant Massage (plus other classes outside of this).
How long have you been an instructor? Qualified 18/2/2022
What made you want to become an instructor? I wanted a new skill where I could bring mummies and babies back to me while incorporating postnatal support.
Have you always been an instructor? No, originally worked in investment banking, then trained to be a midwife (8 years qualified).
What’s your favourite part of your job? I absolutely love seeing the difference in the babies at the start and end of the course in how much they learn to love massage; you can tell which parents practice at home!
How do you keep your skills up to date? I find keeping in touch with and following my fellow instructors a great way to keep my skills up to date.
What qualities do you think are important in an instructor? You need to be a great communicator. Empathy is key as sometimes it can be the caregiver's first classes.
What benefits do you derive from teaching? I love teaching and supporting and the need to continually learn and adapt!
Have you learnt anything surprising about baby massage? How effective it and how well babies respond to repetition!
What’s your top tip for other instructors? Think about everything from the eyes of a new mummy – make it relaxing/ easy/ fun. Sometimes a cup of tea and a chat is enough to make a difference! Make a hot drink for them!! Everyone loves an Insta pic so photo opportunities are key!
Have you had an amusing experience in your work as an instructor? Only a near whole class of poonamis!!!!!
Who would you most like to teach on one of your courses and why? My daughter – she has just had her first baby and I can't wait for them to join one of my classes!
What are your plans for the future? I'll continue to work on my business Mer-mummies UK!
