Helping Kids with Autism Thrive through Touch Therapy

Every child deserves to thrive and massage (touch therapy) can help kids with autism reach this goal. In honor of World Autism Awareness Day (April 2nd) and World Autism Month, I wanted to share some massage tips for parents who have kids on the autism spectrum. Since massage is a compassionate and nurturing act, daily application may encourage a stronger bond between parent and child. Research has even shown that parent-child bonding improved after daily massage over three and five month periods. Plus, giving massage is a great mindfulness practice for parents (that’s just my two cents, no research about this yet). There may be other (less researched) benefits of touch therapy that include: helping children become more accustomed to tactile stimulation, promoting body awareness, increasing relaxation, and decreasing sleep issues. Are you eager to learn more?

This is just a brief overview to get you excited about giving massage to your child. If you like what you read, I’ll be presenting more in-depth at the June 2019 Autism Services & Resources CT Information Network Group. Stay tuned for details.

Note that these tips apply for any kiddo, with or without autism. Consult with a certified pediatric massage therapist (I’m a CPMT with special training in touch therapy for kids with autism) if your child has more complex medical concerns.

Now, on to the good stuff.

1) Make massage a daily ritual. Most kids have a schedule they follow so pick a time that you can consistently give massage to your child. Maybe you’ve already got a built-in “chill out” time or maybe bedtime is best for everyone in the family. When thinking about this, make sure to pick a time when you’ll be feeling relaxed too - it’s amazing how kids can pick up on any stressful or frenetic energy you give off.

2) Allow your child to choose where they receive their massage, if you play music, read, or use lotion. Empower your child by giving them options. This way, they’re going to be more likely to enjoy the massage!

3) Slowly introduce massage time to your child if it’s new to them and you.

4) Follow your kid’s cues. You know your child better than anyone and you’ll be able to tell if they’re just not having it. Don’t force it.

5) Try massaging a hand or foot first. If that doesn’t work, try their back.

6) Some kids don’t like the feel of skin to skin contact or lotion so work over clothes and without lotion.

7) Always ask for permission to touch because this establishes healthy boundaries and shows your child that their response matters. Nonverbal kiddos give us signs too.

8) Incorporate favorite toys, blankets or other items.

Those are my quick tips for incorporating massage into your child’s life. In the words of Tina Allen, renowned pediatric massage therapist: “Children are our greatest gift and should be treated with extraordinary care.” Isn’t that the truth!

*I want to acknowledge the many adults and young adults who fall on the autism spectrum. Massage therapy services may not be something they seek out but the benefits could be great. My suggestion to everyone is to find a therapist who’s compassionate, curious, patient and a great fit for the individual client. I may write a blog explaining how to find a great massage therapist for you. Let me know in the comments if this is something you’d like to learn about!