Massage for Children and Others on the Autism Spectrum
Did you know that many alternative therapies, including massage, are fantastic for both children and adults who are on the spectrum? Massage for any client with special needs should be approached with sensitivity and a tailored understanding of each person’s preferences. When seeking a therapist, look for the following…
Your therapist should:
- Start slowly and gradually, beginning with gentle touch and gradually increasing pressure if the client seems comfortable.
- Pay attention to the client’s cues and adjust approach accordingly.
- Respect sensory preferences: some may be sensitive to touch, while others may seek it for sensory input
- Use soft, slow movements to avoid overstimulation.
- Ask for permission: Before starting the massage, your therapist should ask for permission from both the client and their carer (if relevant) and let them know what to expect.
- Encourage communication about comfort level during the massage.
- Use familiar objects: For children this might include familiar objects like soft toys or textured materials during the massage to make the experience more comfortable.
- Incorporate other preferred sensory input: This may or may not include scented oils or calming music. Therapists should understand that some may be very sensitive to particular essential oils and/or specific smells
- Be mindful of communication: Use clear and simple language to explain the massage process.
- Pay attention to non-verbal cues, as some clients may communicate more effectively through gestures or facial expressions.
- Establish a routine: Create a consistent routine for the massage to provide predictability, which can be comforting for people on the spectrum.
- Respect personal space: Allow clients to guide the session, indicating if they need breaks or if they want the massage to stop.
At Botanique, we are always mindful of each client’s needs, particularly those who might need a little extra attention. Please feel free to reach out and discuss this with us for yourself and/or your child or other person you care for if need be.
