The ancient art of baby massage is a wonderful skill that has many benefits for both parent and baby. Interaction
• Bonding and attachment
• Communication
• Early contact with parents
• Empathy
Language Development
• Improved learning ability
• Tone, growth mind and body awareness
Relief
• Gas and Colic
• Constipation
• Excess mucus
• Teething
Relaxation
• Improved sleep patterns
• Increased flexibility
• Ability to calm
• High levels of anti-stress hormones
Stimulation of many body systems including
• Digestive
• Immune
• Lymphatic
• Circulatory
• Nervous
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Massage In Schools Programme (MISP)
The Massage In Schools Association runs a unique child-centred massage programme and it is an internationally recognised organisation that is helping children all over the globe. It was founded by Mia Elmsater (Sweden) and Sylvie Hetu (Canada)
There have been numerous studies and research carried out to suggest that the massage in schools programme can achieve many benefits for all the people involved. These include the child, parents, teacher, the whole school and even the society. For example the child can benefit:
• Improved concentration
• Developing greater respect for their peers
• Relaxation and reduction in stress levels
• Learning about positive touch and the right to say no
This can also lead to an improved body awareness and self-esteem. The Parents might notice the positive effect massage is having on their child, they may find them calmer when arriving home from school, they may sleep better at night and have improved relationships with their brothers and sisters. This is an activity that parent and child can share and a tool to help the child do homework. The teacher benefit:
• More harmony within the class room
• Easier and smooth classroom management
• Lower noise levels
• An activity without pressure and which is not target oriented
• Calmer class environment overall
The school benefit:
• A practical tool for use against bullying
• Children of different ages and classes helping one another
• Pupils show more respect for school property, materials and building
• Less violence in the classrooms and on the playground
So with the children begin educated and exposed to positive touch they will be healthier as they grow into adults. So we will see lower heath costs, we will benefit from a more peaceful society, show more respect for one another have higher levels of social skills and live in a less stressful environment.
