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Massage can help facilitate one-on-one time between a parent and child fostering a relationship that will
grow stronger. Starting in infancy, a parent can begin to massage their child, which forges a stronger bond
and increases communication. Pediatric massage, when caregiver administered, can give you time to sit
down and discuss the childs day or any anxiety they may have. Studies have shown children and adults
who receive massage experience diminished anxiety during academic stress, hospital stays and other
potential anxiety related events.
Just as massage can be given by parents, many pediatric massage therapists work with children experiencing
anxiety. Keep in mind, that just the thought of leaving their home to come in for a massage may cause them
anxiety. Pediatric massage is not meant to cause further anxiety, but our hope is that it may benefit the child
by relieving some of their stress.
Pediatric Massage Tips
Before the session, decide with the parents guidance whether the session should be in your setting or theirs.
Coming to a new location can be anxiety provoking for many people. If the session will be in your
environment, help prepare the child for coming to a new location by sending pictures of your setting
beforehand to the parents. You can email them to the parent so they can show them to child to help make
them more comfortable.
Always, as with any pediatric massage session, ask permission before you begin and check in frequently.
This could include giving the child ways to communicate their likes and dislikes in a passive fashion, such
as using "thumbs up" or "thumbs down."
Especially at the first session, but every time if necessary, do not ask the child to disrobe to their comfort
level. Body image and concern of "what others will think of me" are often causes of anxiety. There is no
reason that massage must be performed skin-to-skin. Many clients benefit from a gentle touch over their
T-Shirt.
Take your time with transitions and always be consistent. If possible, work together with the family to keep
the same time, place and routine. Creating a consistent massage time for a child can help to create routine,
stability and provide calm that just might keep anxiety at bay.
Click here for more information about Tina Allen, LMT, CPMMT, CPMT, CIMT.
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