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Peer Massage

Welcome to Nelson Primary School's Peer Massage Programme Information Page.

 

Massage In Schools AssociationNelson Primary School has been providing a nurturing environment for our pupils through our Peer Massage Programme. Rooted in promoting personal boundaries, well-being, and consent, our programme is designed to help pupils grow, both emotionally and physically. Here's a closer look at the programme and its numerous benefits.

Understanding the Nelson Peer Massage Programme

Our Peer Massage Programme is an integral part of our school's culture, fostering a positive attitude towards touch and respect for personal boundaries in our pupils from a young age. Here's a brief overview:

Our programme harnesses the power of positive touch to support pupils' well-being. When pupils engage in massage, their bodies release oxytocin, commonly referred to as the "happy hormone." This hormone plays a crucial role in:

  • Reducing Stress: Oxytocin helps reduce the levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

  • Building Trust and Connection: It enhances trust and bonding, which is essential in their social development.

  • Strengthening Emotional Resilience: Oxytocin aids in developing emotional resilience and can have a positive impact on pupils' emotional health.

Sample Massage Moves

Our programme incorporates various massage moves designed to offer a range of benefits. Here are some examples:

  1. Breathing: This move focuses on deep breaths, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

  2. Cat Grip: A gentle neck massage that helps release tension and reduce stress.

  3. Baker/Kneading: A gentle squeezing motion that relieves muscle tension and promotes relaxation.

  4. Hearts: A heart-shaped massage movement that helps pupils bond and connect.

  5. Scooping: A soothing motion that reduces stress and promotes relaxation.

  6. Forehead Stroke: This move is calming and helps pupils relax.

  7. Sliding Board: A movement that relieves tension in the neck and shoulders.

  8. Butterfly: A gesture that promotes trust and bonding between pupils.

  9. Bear Walk: A massage movement that helps pupils relax and feel safe.

  10. Ice Skating: A soothing motion that reduces tension and promotes relaxation.

  11. Brushing the Horse: A calming gesture that releases tension in the back.

  12. Brushing Off the Snow: This movement promotes relaxation and stress reduction.

Programme Details

  • Each massage session takes approximately 15 minutes.
  • Teachers lead the massage, but never massage children. Only children massage other children.
  • The massage happens once a day, offering a regular opportunity for pupils to benefit from its effects.
  • It's important to note that children who do not consent to participate have the option to engage in self-message, relax, or perform the moves in the air to join in a way that feels comfortable to them.

Your Child's Well-being Matters

We appreciate the trust you place in our programme and school. Our Peer Massage Programme has consistently delivered the benefits of relaxation, stress reduction, and social skill development to our pupils. By harnessing the power of positive touch and understanding the hormones at play, we are committed to promoting your child's well-being and social development.