Caring Touch Ideas for Parents and Caregivers
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Caring Touch is simple massage strokes that you may use to help care for your child while they are hospitalized or at home when they are well. Massaging your child may help them feel cared for and loved. It can help your child develop healthy boundaries, help them relax and build motor skills and brain connections.
Ground, relax and focus: This means you are in a calm state of mind and can dedicate some time to focus your attention on your child. You may want to take 3 deep breaths to begin. For more ideas, view our video on Caring Touch.
Ask permission: Even if you child is unable to talk, ask if they are ready for massage. You may even want to use your hands to communicate. Look for cues that your child is ready to receive massage. Good signs that your child is ready are: making eye contact, a calm state of being, and being interactive. You know your child best. If it seems they are not ready, it is best to wait.
When to avoid massage: If you child has a fever or received vaccinations within the past 72 hours, do not use these techniques. Nurturing Touch is always alright. If you are unsure about massaging your child in certain areas due to lines, wounds, or other healthcare issues, avoid the area and talk to your healthcare provider.
Introduces your touch and pressure on the skin.
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This stroke helps to allow muscles to relax.
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This stroke can provide a calming, reassuring effect.
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This light technique can have a relaxing effect.
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This stroke helps promote circulation and blood flow to the immediate area. This stroke can have a soothing effect similar to a hot shower.
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Limb rolling helps to decrease the sensation of pain by stimulating the nerves and tissues. This routine can be used immediately prior to the painful procedure.
This can also be used as a distracting technique when used on the opposite limb that is being used for a painful procedure or needlestick.
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Use your imagination and tell your child a pizza story. Below is a framework to help guide you. You will use some of the techniques described above.