Mothers have been massaging their newborns for thousands of years as a tradition past from generation to generation. As an essential intervention for common infant discomforts or ailments, this tool of the nurturing and healing touch has been ignored and pushed back by the appearance of the pharmaceuticals and the lack of research until the past half a century when pioneers Doctors , Phd's , Anthropologists and Humanitarians have studied and clinically proved the usefulness and necessity of Touch and Early Interactions for a healthy development , both physical and emotional. As the researches and evidences become more and more significant, we are happy to witness the Pediatric Massage as taking it's part  in the integrative care departments of the Pediatric Health Systems as alternative intervention to aid in weight gain for preemies, sleep disorders, toning and regulation of the digestive system, aid in sensory integration, neurological development , hormonal regulation, pain management, by release of endorphins (the natural pain killers), even eczema and asthma management and many more. 

        When taught to the parents, Infant Massage is an excellent practical tool for improving communication and the most necessary bonding and attachment between the child and the primary care giver, biologic or adoptive, which has also showed to help with post partum depression and overcoming of other parenting insecurities. 

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         Every child deserves to receive the effects of touch therapy in a unique style , specifically designed for their needs . They may benefit from different gentle techniques, varied length of sessions and gentle application. Evidence suggests that pediatric massage may also improve muscle tone, increase performance on motor tasks, provide much needed relief from constipation by improving motility, help lower stress hormone levels, reducing anxiety, touch aversion, creating positive growing and healing environment, both for the child and for the family.   

          At Early Touch Therapy, certified and trained by the LIddle Kidz Foundation, I provide  Pediatric Massage Therapy to all children, Touch Therapy for Children with Autism and, as a separate course, I teach  parents/caregivers the art of infant massage as a tool they can readily use to aid in their baby's healthy emotional and physical development.

 

           Before the beginning of any session, a detailed health history and intake form is required, whether it is a hands-on therapeutic provided by me, your certified pediatric massage therapist or techniques shared with parents. In order to practice best care, the full health profile must be reviewed, and a treatment plan developed.

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Your Massage Therapist is a part of the team-approach for the wellbeing of the child.

 

Who is a CPMT?

 

A Certified Pediatric Massage Therapist is a massage therapist, or other health care professional, who has received specific advanced training to enhance their skills in providing pediatric massage therapy.  We have knowledge of various massage techniques for working with children with varied physical, developmental, emotional and mental challenges. We also have learned the many benefits and importance of individualized adaptations for using massage therapy with children. ( ref: Tina Allen, CPMT manual)

   

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