Consistent Nurturing Touch… Finding a Way to Connect with Autism
For parents: Massage has been shown to be effective in helping children on the Autism Spectrum.
One study in particular found that children who received a general 15 minute massage before bedtime showed more on-task focus and improved social skills, along with better sleep throughout the night. Massage is an easy practice that all parents can take up to help their children relax on many different levels. If you are not sure of the best way to go about learning massage, a few sessions with a local and experienced Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) or Certified Craniosacral Therapist (CST) can help wonders. By taking your child in to see a LMT or CST a few times, you can learn some basic techniques to make your lives easier through touch awareness, exploration and experiential re-connection. Mindful touch is so nourishing and healthy and you might be surprised at the benefits for both of you.
Beautiful shifts and changes with children who are diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum has closely been observed at the Upledger Institute for many years. Craniosacral Therapy is a much more detailed set of techniques that focuses on working with the brain, spine and surrounding tissues. With Craniosacral Therapy in particular, children have consistently found deeper balance and a sense of quiet centering. While they also have been seen to discover more positive feelings about the Self as well as with the surrounding environment, they also have the benefit of physiological change in the CNS. This work helps to decrease structural stress and strain on the nervous system. By releasing tension around the brain, and along the spine, the body functions more optimally, and many kids have experienced very positive results this way. For a case study, please click the following link located at the Upledger Institute, http://iahe.com/html/support/details.php?id=10059
Massage and CSt can feel non-invasive if done with respect and patience- the benefits are numerous: better circulation, more flexibility, less stress. Whether you want to set up a schedule for treatment for yourself and children, or learn some basic skills for calming and integrating, you can’t go wrong. There is no down side to this treatment!
Crainosacral Therapy supporting Autism
Additional Links:
http://www.massagemag.com/pediatric-massage-therapy-for-autism-part-two-research-and-benefits-of-massage-therapy-for-children-with-autism-2-24015/
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11794416
http://www.myfoxorlando.com/story/21221626/cranial-massage-helps-autistic-boy
Some other recommended links given to me by mothers with autism:
Reduce the Noise: Help Loved Ones with Sensory Overload Enjoy Shopping
http://www.retailmenot.com/blog/sensory-overload-while-shopping.html
Home Modifications for Autistic Kids
http://www.homecity.com/creating-a-home-where-your-child-can-thrive-with-a-disability
Resources for Military Families
http://www.patss.com/resources/
Moving with Special Needs Kids
http://www.yourstoragefinder.com/moving-with-special-needs-kids
Academic Accommodation Resources
http://www.washington.edu/doit/academic-accommodations-students-psychiatric-disabilities
Worry Wise Kids
http://www.worrywisekids.org/
Estate Planning for Parents of Kids with Autism
https://www.justgreatlawyers.com/estate-planning-for-parents-of-children-with-autism