FAQ's about Touch Medicine

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How long will it take me to learn the massage techniques?

Go at your own pace! Learning the techniques, practicing the techniques and integrating them into your lifestyle is totally dependent on the individual person.  

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After completing the modules, can I work on people outside of my family?

Most states require a license to practice massage therapy which includes graduation from an accredited program and the passing of a national exam.  Likewise, it is not legal to take money in exchange for massage services without a license.  Touch Medicine 4 Kids™ was designed for parents and caregivers wanting to learn effective massage techniques for their own personal use within their home in order to help better their children’s quality of life.  It is not an accredited program in which to reach therapist licensure and not a substitute for massage school.

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If I have an instructional question about a massage skill, who can I contact for help?

No worries! Email Angela and get a personal response. 

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Do I need to purchase a massage table?

The answer to this questions is no!  We have adapted all techniques to be used on a mat on the floor.  The reason for this is because massage tables can be costly, take up space, and many children associate them with “going to the doctor” due to their similarity to exam tables.  As a massage therapist, I rarely use my massage table with my children, preferring a more natural setting in the comfort of their own room.  This isn’t to say that massage tables aren’t lovely when giving long massages (they don’t require getting on your knees!), but for the purpose of pediatric massage, a mat, futon mattress, or bed works great!  We have provided modules for “table massage” in the TM Library for those of you that are interested!

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How often should I give my child massage?

The amount of massage a child receives is completely dependent on the individual child.  Kids vary in age, attention span, movement and personality.  Add in what time of day the child is most ready to relax, family commitments, medical conditions and the flow of each unique household and you’ve got quite a mixed bag of “variables”. So, we suggest starting with one minute of massage per age of the child, gradually building up to 10-15 minutes per day.  Setting aside a special time and place for the massage is a great way to establish a routine.  In our home, we provide massage to the kids before bed as part of their night-time routine. But again, remember that there is no right or wrong and what works for one family may be completely different from what works for yours!   

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I’ve been massaging my child for years. What makes this program different from the back rubs I provide?

Massage is a subjective art form…similar to painting, music or dance.  And just like an artist, musician, or dancer, skills can be developed and improved upon, becoming more effective through instruction.  Touch Medicine 4 Kids™ strives to give you the tools that professional therapists use in order to cultivate your massage techniques.  We are here to provide a guide for parents and caregivers who want to provide therapeutic and healing touch for their children.  You may be surprised as to how much there is to learn! Peruse the module descriptions for a taste of what you will be learning with us!

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Is there a specific type of massage that works better for kids?

At Touch Medicine 4 Kids™, we believe that massage should be individualized for each child.  While one child may love acupressure points, another may prefer Swedish techniques.  Discovering the combination of techniques that works best for you and your child is part of the fun!  Remember to give all of the techniques a try and that for best results, consistency is the key!

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What if my child is resistant to receiving massage?

It is our philosophy that massage should be fun and stress-free! That is why we believe parents are the best providers and a comfortable, familiar setting is the most effective.  However, if your child is resistant to receiving massage, don’t force him or her to participate.  Give it time and approach it in a less formal manner.  Children may be resistant for many reasons, so exploring the reason behind the reluctance is the first step! And never blame yourself! Be patient and try a variety of techniques, settings and times of day.

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Do you offer live workshops?

We realize that an on-line presentation is not for everyone, so we have options! Contact Angela at angelaburke@live.com if you are interested in a live 2-day workshop in your area!  Live workshops are contingent on location and scheduling.  Special rates may apply to groups over 15.  Angela also offers private sessions for those who desire more individualized attention and instruction.