In the previous two posts, I reviewed the video, “Bonding Through Touch: Infant Massage for Adoptive Families,” and introduced you to the video’s producer, Joni Rubinstein. Today, my interview with Joni continues.

Laura Christianson: Why did you decide to produce videos about infant massage?

Joni Rubinstein: When my life changed due to divorce, I was not able to volunteer as much, so I decided to make the videos. "Healthy Touch: Infant Massage for Teenage Parents" was first, then "Bonding Through Touch: Infant Massage for Adoptive Families."

I was fortunate to have absolutely amazing parents to work with for both videos. The teen parents from two high school programs were impressive in their dedication to participate and they learned so much about parenting and bonding. It was heartwarming to see them dedicate themselves to the process and the parent/child relationships benefited.

My adoptive families were committed to IM and their relationships with their babies was deepened and completed with IM. Both productions were fun and meaningful.

LC: In what other ways are you involved with IM?

JR: Over the years, I have presented at state and national conferences on the importance of IM and the bonding process. I have met wonderful parents of diverse backgrounds and ages who understand the power of touch in bonding.

LC: I’ll bet you’ve had great fun working with adoptive parents.

JR: I have great respect for adoptive parents who open their hearts and homes to children from all over the world and with a variety of needs. Many I have met have adopted several children and it is not an exaggeration to say that these children would not have made it without their adoptive and foster parents.

One woman at a NACAP conference come up to my display table and told me about the many disabled and addicted children she has raised. If I remember correctly, it was at least 10. She talked about how she would hold and rub them and just love them. People with hearts that big are amazing!

LC: What’s your next career step?

JR: All children deserve to be wanted, accepted, and touched with love. That is why I have been drawn to IM for enhancing bonding with teen and adoptive parents. All children deserve to reach their potential.

That is why at 52, I am entering a new career as a school counselor. You can see un-bonded behaviors in children in schools all over the country. I know that real contact is the way to reach children. Touch is a universal language; if your child has only heard Chinese or Russian spoken, you can still say “I love you” with touch and eye contact. It is powerful, it is simple, and it is fun. You have to make it fun, playful, loving and consistent. Babies can thrive on that.

“Bonding Through Touch: Infant Massage for Adoptive Families,” costs $20 plus $6 shipping/handling for either VHS or DVD. To order, visit www.thethreehearts.com.