Jody McDonald
Registered Massage Therapist
Jody McDonald is a Registered Massage Therapist, educator, and speaker who has spent years studying the neuroscience of touch and how it shapes a baby’s developing nervous system. Her work focuses on helping parents understand how predictable, attuned touch supports bonding, emotional regulation, and early development.
Through her Infant Massage Masterclass and live education, Jody translates research into simple, practical tools that help parents feel confident using touch.
Presentation:
Wired for Connection: Preparing for Your Baby’s Nervous System in a High-Tech World
Expecting parents prepare for cribs, car seats, and feeding plans, but few are taught how to prepare for their baby’s nervous system. In this science-grounded session, Registered Massage Therapist Jody McDonald explains how infants develop regulation through co-regulation, why attuned touch matters in a high-tech world, and what research shows about the power of structured, responsive touch. Parents will leave with practical insight on supporting connection from the very beginning and how to choose safe, evidence-informed infant massage education.