Massage In Schools Programme

Our Vision

Is that every child attending school experience positive and nurturing touch every day . . . . . . everywhere in the world.

Children can experience nurturing touch through the Massage in Schools Programme (MISP).  This is a peer massage programme for children of primary school age and the transitional year into secondary schools.  It is an international programme and was introduced in the UK in December 2000.  It is now being used in schools nationwide and is based on respect for self and others.

Before introducing the Programme, school staff, governors and parents are consulted. 
 

The clothed massage is:

- For children 4-12 years old 
- Given by the children, to each other
- Restricted to the back, head, arms and hands
- Given and received with the child’s permission
- A set daily 10-15 minutes routine and cross – curricular games developed by    teachers and children

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
· It encourages visualisation and kinaesthetic learning
· Massage is fun!

Instructors’ trainings are used by local education authorities, Sure Start, Children’s Fund, National Pyramid Trust and other organisations.  Adults working with these organisations attend a two-day MISP Instructor’s training course before introducing the Massage in Schools Programme to the children.

The Massage in Schools Association (MISA) supports Instructors. 
MISA is a member of the Anti-Bullying Alliance.

Participants’ comments

“Well balanced, good range of different activities – which we all appreciated.  It was a really excellent course.  Thank you so much.”
PSHE Adviser

“I have learnt how powerful the simple strokes given and received by children can be.”
Massage Therapist, New Zealand

“ The course has more than met my expectations. I had not realised that we would be getting so much theory and background to the massage- but this has made it the more fascinating for me.”
Early Years practitioner, Rhondda Cynon Taf

“I was put at my ease and felt very comfortable for the duration of the course.”
Learning Support Assistant, Worcester

For information about Instructor’s training see Events..