How does a massage with a child usually work?
First and foremost, the child is the boss and they have control over their massage. He or she are always asked ahead of time the following:
1. If they want the massage, asked in appropriate child-age language.
2. When I am about to start my work.
Massage sessions (In-Home visits) are conducted at the client's home. This can be beneficial for the child, especially if they have anxiety issues or are nervous to be in unfamiliar areas.
They are also given the freedom to stop the massage for any reason. Children do stay clothed during the massage or are appropriately draped (still with some clothing on) during the treatment as massage is possible and just as effective through clothing. A table is not always needed for the massage. Usually the massage is on the floor or on a mat, and most of the time favorable. This allows me to be at the child’s level, which may calm them if they are nervous.
How long is the massage?
Sessions typically last 30 minutes (sometimes shorter). Your child may not be able to tolerate the full 30 minutes or may not want to sit for that long. And that is okay! I work within the child’s tolerance for the massage and never push them to receive work they do not want. In addition, a parent or second adult ARE always present. If the adult accompanying the child is not their parent, the parent will be contacted in order to authorize the massage. Having a parent around is nice for questions, to update me on how their child did after the previous session, to hear of any health changes or if they want to use any of the techniques at home with their child.
What is the pressure that is used during the massage?
The pressure I use during the massage ranges between a 0-3:
0 - Hands placed on them (such as their back, or arm). No movement and very slow repetitions of lifting of my hands off and on the skin.
1 - Very light work which includes a gliding motion on their skin. This is similar to the pressure of squeezing an orange.
2 - A bit more pressure is applied in a “rubbing” motion. It is similar to rubbing sunscreen on.
3 - In addition to the “rubbing” motion of level 2, there is light kneading introduced that can help with increasing circulation in the body. I also consistently check in to make sure that the pressure is good with them and that they do not need a change.
Is talking okay during the massage?
Yes. I actually encourage talking for both the child and parent. Talking during the massage allows for a natural introduction to meet everyone, to check if your child is enjoying the massage and to answer any questions. Talking is a way to further involve the child in the massage; through story time or imagination.
How often does my child need a massage?
It depends on what we are working on at the time and how your child is responding to the massage. Sessions will vary from child to child. Both the session and the frequency of sessions are tailored to the child's needs and current issues.
Are all massages the same?
No. I individualize my massages for each child. Every child is different in what they need from the massage or are able to tolerate. I work within the child's comfort level and will incorporate a variety of techniques and tools depending on what your child reacts positively to. However, I do adhere to my guidelines in order to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for the child.
What is the age range for Pediatric Massage?
Pediatric massage ranges from 2 years of age to 17.
What are the benefits of massage for children?
There are several benefits to massage for children.
- Promoting relaxation
- Decreasing anxiety
- Decreasing stress
- Aiding in reducing nausea
- Helping with constipation
- If given by parents, can promote a bonding experience between child and parent
- Possibly helping with GI issues
- Increasing serotonin levels
- Helping decrease growing pain discomfort
- Calming muscle spasms
- Aiding in sleep issues
- Decreasing pain
- Possibly increasing circulation
How do I make an appointment?
You can make an appointment with me either through email at sweetpeapediatrics@gmail.com or by calling 708.250.1645.
Do you take insurance?
Unfortunately, I do not. Cash or check payments only at this time.
First and foremost, the child is the boss and they have control over their massage. He or she are always asked ahead of time the following:
1. If they want the massage, asked in appropriate child-age language.
2. When I am about to start my work.
Massage sessions (In-Home visits) are conducted at the client's home. This can be beneficial for the child, especially if they have anxiety issues or are nervous to be in unfamiliar areas.
They are also given the freedom to stop the massage for any reason. Children do stay clothed during the massage or are appropriately draped (still with some clothing on) during the treatment as massage is possible and just as effective through clothing. A table is not always needed for the massage. Usually the massage is on the floor or on a mat, and most of the time favorable. This allows me to be at the child’s level, which may calm them if they are nervous.
How long is the massage?
Sessions typically last 30 minutes (sometimes shorter). Your child may not be able to tolerate the full 30 minutes or may not want to sit for that long. And that is okay! I work within the child’s tolerance for the massage and never push them to receive work they do not want. In addition, a parent or second adult ARE always present. If the adult accompanying the child is not their parent, the parent will be contacted in order to authorize the massage. Having a parent around is nice for questions, to update me on how their child did after the previous session, to hear of any health changes or if they want to use any of the techniques at home with their child.
What is the pressure that is used during the massage?
The pressure I use during the massage ranges between a 0-3:
0 - Hands placed on them (such as their back, or arm). No movement and very slow repetitions of lifting of my hands off and on the skin.
1 - Very light work which includes a gliding motion on their skin. This is similar to the pressure of squeezing an orange.
2 - A bit more pressure is applied in a “rubbing” motion. It is similar to rubbing sunscreen on.
3 - In addition to the “rubbing” motion of level 2, there is light kneading introduced that can help with increasing circulation in the body. I also consistently check in to make sure that the pressure is good with them and that they do not need a change.
Is talking okay during the massage?
Yes. I actually encourage talking for both the child and parent. Talking during the massage allows for a natural introduction to meet everyone, to check if your child is enjoying the massage and to answer any questions. Talking is a way to further involve the child in the massage; through story time or imagination.
How often does my child need a massage?
It depends on what we are working on at the time and how your child is responding to the massage. Sessions will vary from child to child. Both the session and the frequency of sessions are tailored to the child's needs and current issues.
Are all massages the same?
No. I individualize my massages for each child. Every child is different in what they need from the massage or are able to tolerate. I work within the child's comfort level and will incorporate a variety of techniques and tools depending on what your child reacts positively to. However, I do adhere to my guidelines in order to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for the child.
What is the age range for Pediatric Massage?
Pediatric massage ranges from 2 years of age to 17.
What are the benefits of massage for children?
There are several benefits to massage for children.
- Promoting relaxation
- Decreasing anxiety
- Decreasing stress
- Aiding in reducing nausea
- Helping with constipation
- If given by parents, can promote a bonding experience between child and parent
- Possibly helping with GI issues
- Increasing serotonin levels
- Helping decrease growing pain discomfort
- Calming muscle spasms
- Aiding in sleep issues
- Decreasing pain
- Possibly increasing circulation
How do I make an appointment?
You can make an appointment with me either through email at sweetpeapediatrics@gmail.com or by calling 708.250.1645.
Do you take insurance?
Unfortunately, I do not. Cash or check payments only at this time.
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