The Effect of Massage Stimulation in Optimizing Infant Cognitive Development

This study aims to evaluate the effect of massage stimulation on the cognitive development of infants at SPA Daycare Narega Bantul Yogyakarta. This study used a Quasi Experimental method with a pre-test and post-test design with a control group. A total of 40 infants aged 6-12 months were randomly divided into two groups: an intervention group that received education about infant massage (n = 20) and a control group (n = 20) that did not receive intervention. . Massage was carried out routinely 3 times a week for 6 weeks. The purposive sampling technique was based on inclusion criteria. The research instrument used the Pre-Screening Development Questionnaire (KPSP) and direct observation during the massage session. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and t-tests to assess differences in cognitive development between the two groups. The results of the data analysis showedThe average value of 85 infant cognitive development in the appropriate or normal category before receiving stimulation and the average value of 90 increased after being given stimulation. The T-value was 2.50 with a p-value of 0.020 (p < 0.05), the average value of 70 infant cognitive development in the doubtful category before receiving massage stimulation and the average value decreased to 65 after the intervention. The T-value was -1.20 and a p-value of 0.260 (p > 0.05).,The average value of 60 indicates that the baby's cognitive development is in the deviant category before receiving massage stimulation and the average value decreased to 55 after stimulation. The T-value was -1.50 and the p-value was 0.190 (p > 0.05).The results of the study indicate that massage stimulation has a significant impact on improving cognitive development in infants. These findings provide a basis for the development of broader intervention programs to support child development in the community.