This service offers one-to-one massage therapy and sensory support for children and young people in Reading. Each session is tailored to the child’s needs and aims to help with relaxation, emotional health and sensory regulation.

Who the service supports

The service supports children and young people with a wide range of needs, including: 

• Autism 
• ADHD 
• Social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs 
• Other special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) 

What happens in a session?

Activity

Sessions usually start with a short activity or exercise to help develop: 

• body awareness and coordination 
• fine motor skills 
• hand–eye coordination 
• using both sides of the body together 

When appropriate, the therapist can also support the child to work towards targets or recommendations from other professionals, such as occupational therapists. 

Emotional support 

Children are given time to talk about worries or concerns if they wish. The therapist can offer calm emotional support and gentle guidance. 

Massage therapy 

After this, the session moves into hand massage which can help children to feel calm and reduce anxiety. It may also support handwriting skills. 

With parent/carer consent and the child’s consent, the therapist may also offer a back and head massage. This takes place while the child lies comfortably on a massage table. 

• All massage is done over clothing 
• Only hands and suitable massage tools are used 
• Consent is always required and respected

Training for adults

This training helps adults support children’s sensory needs and use simple massage techniques at school or at home. It’s available for:

• School staff 
• Parents and carers 

How to access the service 

The service is bought directly by schools. Referrals are usually made by the SENCo or Inclusion Co-ordinator.