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Touch Therapy for Liddle Kidz with Autism

July 25, Vancouver, BC – The comprehensive Touch Therapy for Liddle Kidz with Autism (Massage for Children with Autism) Course for massage therapists and healthcare professionals is available in Canada.

July 26, 2011  By Massage Therapy Canada


This course is approved by NCBTMB and CMTO and provides educational and professional training to those who wish to enhance their skills. Through this advanced training, participants learn to provide massage therapy, nurturing touch techniques, touch therapy, tactile introduction, sensory stimulation and integration for children who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). 


Currently, we are in the midst of a global epidemic, where children are diagnosed at an ever growing rate with one of many developmental disorders that includes autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), pervasive development disorder (PDD), and nonverbal learning disorder (NLD).Autism, ADD, ADHD, PDD, NLD, and Asperger’s Syndrome were once either unknown or very rare. In 1980, autism diagnoses alone were 1 in 5,000; the most current data from the CDC says it’s 1 in 110 children. Boys appear to be affected four times as much as girls, the rate could be as high as 1 in 70. There are many theories, however no one can say exactly what causes autism and its related disorders, including Asperger’s Syndrome, an autism-like condition usually without language delay, and various Pervasive Development Disorders (PDDs). 

ASDs interfere with normal development of the brain in the areas that influence reasoning, social interaction, motor skills, communication skills, and attention. Children with autism spectrum disorders are typically deficient in verbal and nonverbal communication, social interaction, and play activities.Developmental disorders occur across a spectrum, affecting individuals differently; some children lose the ability to speak, some might have motor impairment, and many lack social and emotional awareness. Behaviors range from hyperactivity to serious self-injury. Families and healthcare professionals often report that children may show lack of eye contact, as well as, have an aversion to touch and tactile stimulation. These disorders make it difficult for children with ASD to communicate with others, leading to frustrated social isolation. If left untreated, children do not develop the skills they need to become a fully functioning part of society. 

For children with autism, research has been published indicating that massage may provide relaxation, stress reduction and calm muscle spasms. Research has also demonstrated that this type of intervention may promote more on-task and social relatedness behavior during play, children with ASD show less erratic behavior, and are more attentive after receiving massage therapy. This safe, nurturing touch, along with regular sensory integration, is beneficial in reducing inattentiveness, touch aversion and withdrawal. Over time, touch therapy also helps the child to become more accustomed to tactile stimulation and aides in body awareness. Often by incorporating massage therapy into daily routines, children with Autism experience decreased issues with sleeping. 

The Liddle Kidz™ Foundation Touch Therapy for Liddle Kidz with Autism Course, and our Advanced Touch Therapy for Liddle Kidz with Autism (Massage for Autism) Training Course includes elements such as: 
• review of autism and ASDs; 
• review of commonly observed symptoms associated with ASD; 
• review of a variety of therapies currently employed with children diagnosed in the spectrum; 
• massage techniques, nurturing touch techniques, tactile introduction, sensorystimulation and integration, oral stimulation and oral-sensory activities; 
• methodology for the use of massage therapy and tactile interventions; 
• age appropriate approach and communication, and unique methods of communicating with children who have ASD; 
• overview of growth and development; 
• benefits for both children and caregivers; 
• recognizing Children’s verbal and nonverbal communication; 
• current pediatric massage research and how best to stay in touch with current research developments; 
• teaching and facilitating skills to impart simple ideas and techniques to parents; 
• networking and marketing skills for reaching healthcare professionals and families; 
• considerations for providing massage therapy for children of all backgrounds, including cultural considerations; 
• medical, healthcare and parental consent considerations; 
• Touch Therapy for Liddle Kidz with Autism (Massage for Children with Autism) Guide (provided in class); 
• supervised practical experience: in-class hands on practice; 
• exam – the exam is administered and graded in class to ensure full understanding of the material presented, and to give participants any additional guidance prior to completing the course; 
• after course mentoring from our Master Teacher; 
• processing of CEH/CEU paperwork and certifications as applicable; 


Recommended pre-course study for these courses: Attendance and completion of Certified Pediatric Massage Therapist (CPMT) Course. 

These courses are available in cities across Canada – for seminar calendar, registration details and more, visitwww.liddlekidz.com or contact info@liddlekidz.ca

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