The Massage in Schools Programme was created by two inspirational women: Mia Elmsater & Sylvie Hetu. The child-to-child massage programme has been developed as an inclusive whole school strategy for reducing children’s stress levels, aggression and bullying.
The MISP is a well-structured yet simple programme.
The clothed, peer massage is:
For children 4-12 years old
Given and received with the child’s permission
Given by the children, to each other
On the back, head, arms and hands
10-15 minutes daily
All children ask permission from each other before they start and say ‘thank you’ to their partner at the end.
The programme is an effective tool for improving child mental health and has had positive benefits for the children participating, such as improved concentration and increased confidence.
Children are empowered to make choices and they develop respect for the needs and feelings of others.
Members of the school community and parents are consulted before implementing the Massage in Schools Programme, which links to aspects of the school curriculum.
Positive touch activities also contribute to schools’ teaching and learning styles.
The programme has been implemented in schools throughout the UK and many of them have reported the following benefits and effects:
Benefits of the Massage in Schools Programme:
Studies and observations have shown that:
Children become calmer and have improved concentration.
Children have more confidence and increased self esteem
It teaches children to respect others and leads to social inclusion
There is a reduction in bullying and aggression
Emotional health improves
It helps children recognise ‘good’ and ‘bad’ touch
Children show improved motor skills
It encourages visualisation and kinaesthetic learning
Children are encouraged to make choices
Cooperation improves as children work in pairs and in groups
There is a calmer classroom environment
The teacher benefits from all these aspects
Massage is fun!
The MISP benefits children in many settings. Primary schools, special schools, children’s centre’s, nurseries, Montessori and Steiner schools, and nurture groups use it. It is also being used by after school clubs, Sure Start, Barnardo’s, the National Pyramid Trust, Hansel & Gretel and other organisations.
MISP is an internationally recognized child centred massage program taught by qualified Massage in Schools Instructors worldwide.
I am a Teaching Assistant at a special school, this year I have been very fortunate to be able to offer Massage Therapy in School, this has been done in class and on a one – one basis, it has proven to be very beneficial for our pupils and its helped them to be calm in class, they have all enjoyed it and had fun.
If you would like any more information or would like to book an appointment Please call or email me through my contact page.
