Evaluation of the Massage in Schools Programme in one primary school

Abstract

This article discusses the potential benefits of the Massage in Schools Programme (MISP), a programme originating in Scandinavia, which has been introduced into schools in the United Kingdom (UK) since 2001. Meeting four out of five outcomes of the Every Child Matters agenda, the review of the literature aims to separate anecdotal and media evidence from the small number of published studies. A description of one six‐month study in a primary school in the UK follows, showing the (teacher rated) benefits to the participating children. An author’s update concludes which comments on further developments both in the local authority and within the Massage in Schools Association (MISA).

Keywords:

• peer massage
• nurturing touch
• oxytocin
• “calm and connection”

Acknowledgements

The author wishes to thank the staff, parents and pupils involved in the study, and to MISA for the training and subsequent information updates.