'The Story Massage Programme combines the benefits of positive touch with the fun and creativity of words – whether as story, rhyme or song.  Ten simple massage strokes form the basis of the programme. These strokes have a name, such as The Circle or The Sprinkle, and an easy to recognise symbol making it fully accessible for all ages and abilities.’                                                                    

www.storymassage.co.uk

Aims

• To promote the well-being of children through the use of the peer massage (Story Massage) technique, designed to relax and encourage team work between children, combined with the enjoyment of stories. See Story Massage website
• To promote respect of self and others, as children request permission before they begin, and say thank you to each other when they finish the routine.
• To give the children the chance to experience nurturing touch at school, in a safe and creative way.
• To give children a voice - those who do not wish to receive / give a massage can say no and sit and relax / observe, or do a pretend massage in the air (or on their own leg /hand).
• To develop positive communication between the children, encouraging them to express their preferences regarding the massage.

Responsibility

The approach is the responsibility of the staff and SLT.  It will be implemented by staff trained in Story Massage and co-ordinated by the Headteacher, Deputy Headteacher and SENCO.

Approach Statement

Peer Massage results in a sense of calm and relaxation – helpful for learning and relationships.

As a ‘peer-to-peer’ activity, it encourages co-operation and teamwork.  It encourages trust between peers and allows children to recognise each other’s feelings and ‘personal space’.

Benefits

Children become calmer, have improved emotional regulation and concentration

• Children become calmer, have improved emotional regulation and concentration
• Children have more confidence and increased self-esteem
• It helps foster and build trust between peers
• It teaches children t respect others and leads to social inclusion
• There is a reduction in bullying and aggression, reducing stress, fear and anxiety
• Emotional health improves
• Children develop better motor skills
• It empowers the child to be able to refuse a massage if they do not want to have one
• It encourages visualisation and kinaesthetic learning
• It aids effective communication
• It is fun