Maple Valley Pediatric Therapy : Promoting Wellness Through Therapy, Relaxation & Education

Maple Valley
Pediatric Therapy
22443 SE 240th Street, Ste. 206
Maple Valley, WA 98038
(425) 358-3070
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Book
Pediatric Massage - Revised - for the Child with Special Needs by Kathy Fleming Drehobl, OTR/L and Mary Gengler Fuhr, OTR/L, 2000.

This illustrated guidebook is designed for use with infants and young children with special needs including Developmental Delays, Neurological Conditions, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Sensory Processing Disorders and others. You will learn about the benefits of massage, the medical needs to consider before giving a massage, reading the child's cues, and detailed massage strokes and modifications. Reproducible pages, updated research, resources, and an extensive bibliography are included.

"At a time when technology is escalating rapidly, it is essential for professionals to ensure that the art of healing is balanced with the science of healing. Emphasis continues to be placed on family centered care, and the role of massage in bonding and attachment has been expanded. Then techniques so carefully described and illustrated are especially empowering for parents in creating successful interactions with their child."

Rhoda P. Erhardt, M.S. OTR, FAOTA from the Forward to Pediatric Massage - Revised-for the Child with Special Needs.

Now available to buy as an ebook!

Pediatric & Infant Massage
Massage is an excellent way for parents and caregivers to communicate and form a strong relationship with their infants and children. The benefits to both the child and adult are numerous and may include:

Increased parent-child attachment and bonding
Increased confidence in parenting skills
Improved respiration
Improved circulation
Enhanced body awareness
Reduced hypersensitivity to touch
Improved vocalization
Better gastrointestinal functioning/relief of gas and constipation
Relaxation for the parent/caregiver and baby/child

The massage giver needs to consider the child's medical status, developmental level and sensory functioning when choosing the type of massage to offer in order for it to be safe and beneficial. Good positioning for the child and parent ensure a comfortable experience.

"We loved our time together too! I can see why Pam referred me to you and only you. You are a wonderful person and were so lovely with David. He told me later he liked you a lot. We did a massage yesterday, going through all the strokes you marked, and it went just fine. I'll try again today. And yes I'll let you know if I have any questions, and look forward to our next session. I'll have to write my sister and thank her and let her know how great you are!"

- Susan H., mother of David, 2 1/2 months at time of first infant massage session

Instruction & Consultation

Maple Valley Pediatric Therapy can help you specifically design a massage program for you and your baby or young child that will be a positive experience and will highlight your child's unique abilities and personality.

We also offer infant massage classes in your home or community center for your parent group or friends.

Please contact us at 425-358-3070 or mary@relaxingresources for more information for private or group sessions to learn pediatric massage with your baby or young child.