What to Expect | A Parent’s Guide to Understanding Pediatric Touch Therapy

November 8, 2023

Stepping into the pediatric touch therapy room, both you and your child may encounter a world that’s quite different from the one you’re used to. It’s not the serene, whisper-quiet atmosphere of a spa; it’s a place brimming with vibrancy, tailored to cater to the unique needs and preferences of children.

Our therapy room is designed with kids in mind. From the colorful walls adorned with cheerful artwork to the shelves stocked with a variety of tactile toys and books, every element is chosen to engage and comfort your young one. Soft, cushioned mats replace the traditional massage tables, and the lighting is bright enough to keep the space welcoming yet soft enough to create a calm ambiance.

As you look around, you’ll notice that the room can be easily modified to suit different activities and therapy needs. This adaptability allows us to create a personalized environment for each child. Some children might find solace in a quiet corner with dimmed lights, while others might thrive in a more interactive setting with music and movement.

In pediatric touch therapy, our approach is hands-on and interactive. We use touch as a language to communicate support and care. It’s a nurturing and non-invasive way to aid in your child’s emotional and physical development. Research indicates that nurturing touch can enhance growth in babies and help with emotion regulation and sociability in children

Pediatric touch therapy is also about respect and consent. Children have the agency to make choices here—whether it’s the music that plays in the background or the sensory toy they’d like to hold during the session. These choices are vital in empowering your child and giving them a sense of control in the therapy process.

We believe in creating a strong therapeutic alliance with both the child and the parents. Effective communication is crucial. We encourage you to share observations about your child’s behavior and preferences, and we’ll offer insights and strategies that you can use at home.

The Certified Pediatric Massage Therapists (CPMT®) role is to engage your child in therapy that doesn’t just happen to them but occurs with them. We aim to help children feel seen, heard, and understood, not just in the therapy room but in all areas of their lives. This can include working on communication skills, such as turn-taking in conversation and maintaining eye contact in a manner that respects and is tailored to each child’s individual capabilities

For children experiencing behavior difficulties, touch therapy can be a gentle way to address these challenges. By creating a safe physical presence, children often feel more at ease to express their feelings and open up about their experiences, which can be particularly helpful for a younger child who might not yet have the vocabulary to articulate their emotions

We also understand that communicating with children requires skill and patience. We aim to talk and listen in ways that make children feel valued and understood, helping to foster strong, positive relationships.

Certified Pediatric Massage Therapists (CPMT®) maintain a professional yet friendly tone at all times, ensuring that both you and your child feel at ease to discuss any concerns or questions you may have. It’s this blend of expertise, empathy, and engagement that forms the cornerstone of our therapeutic practice.

Pediatric touch therapy is more than just a set of techniques—it’s a holistic approach to healing and growth. By respecting each child’s individuality, fostering a sense of agency, and supporting family involvement, we work together to create a foundation for lifelong well-being.

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