Specific studies into the benefits of Massage in Schools include:
A study conducted by Renfrewshire Council to assess the impact of massage compared to storytelling and pair activities. The study indicated that massage can help to improve pupils' concentration levels. The participating parents, children and teachers were all keen to continue using the Massage in Schools Programme in their school, after the study was completed.
You can also view endorsements for the Massage in Schools Programme from other Scottish Primary Schools, who have already successfully introduced the programme.
General touch research:
There have been many scientific studies conducted over the years, to assess the wide-ranging benefits of massage in both adults, children and infants. Check out the Touch Research Institute in Miami to view the latest.
Some studies with non-typically developing individuals demonstrate that massage can help to:
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Decrease hyperactivity and fidgeting, and increase concentration, in children with ADHA (Field, QUintino, Hernandez-Reif & Koslovsky, 1998a).
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Reduce stereotypical behaviour and social difficulties in children diagnosed with autism (Escalona, Field, Singer-Strunk, Cullen & Hartshorn, 2001).
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Reduce agression (Diego, Field, Hernandez-Reif, Shaw, Rothe, Castellanos & Messner, 2002).
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Enhance altertness (Field, Ironson, Scafidi, Nawrocki, Goncalves, Burman, Pickens, Fox, Schanberg & Kuhn, 1996)
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Improve mood (Kilnana, Field, Hernandez-Reif & Schanberg, 2003)
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Decrease depression (Field, Schanberg, Kuhn, Field, Fierro, Henteleff, Mueller, Yando, Shaw & Burman, 1998b)
Find out more about the Massage in Schools Programme: Or, contact KnotStressed to find out more.