FAQs About Massage for Children, Babies, and Youth

A therapeutic use of touch to promote relaxation and encouraging bonding between the baby and their parent. It can help to improve sleep, and ease discomfort like gas or colic. Massage promotes relaxation, stimulates development, and reduces stress hormones for both baby and parent.

There are extra considerations with children. The emphasis on the power of their consent is extremely important. There may be additional considerations with respect to how to make them comfortable, for example the option to remain clothed during treatment. I prioritize the respect of boundaries created by each individual patient.

Yes, While I have shifted my practice to focus on the treatment of children, I am still taking adult patients referred for voice and swallowing disorders, until such a time as there are an adequate number of practitioners with this skill set. When booking please choose “RMT with Shelley -Professional Referral Only”.

There is not much difference from a therapeutic perspective. It’s really a preference. Some folks prefer massage over clothing. Sensory issues can make it overwhelming to receive massage on the skin and a barrier makes it a better experience for them. For some, the feeling of oil being applied to their skin is comforting. I am a strong advocate for allowing kids to decide for themselves what they are comfortable with and allowing them to explore their options.

In baby constipation massage we would apply massage ONLY in a clockwise direction to encourage a bowel movement (poop). We want to avoid massaging counterclockwise as it can potentially lead to an impacted bowel.

If your child is under 6 years old, a 30 minute appointment is recommended. For those older than 6, a 45 minute appointment is recommended. 60 minute appointments are reserved for follow up appointments, when it is clear that 60 minutes would be appropriate. When booking, please choose “pediatric massage therapy” from the drop down menu.

Absolutely. Please book a 30 minute pediatric massage session (in your baby’s name) and we will go over the basics together to make sure you feel confident massaging your baby at home. Follow up sessions can be booked for more specific things like constipation, sinus congestion or teething.

I offer private infant massage classes so each family receives the individual attention they deserve. Unlike group sessions, these private classes also allow me to provide receipts that may be reimbursed by insurance. Please book a 30-minute pediatric massage session in your baby’s name, and we’ll cover the basics so you feel confident practicing at home.