ST PETER’S First School, Williton, has been celebrating becoming the first Somerset school to receive the Story Massage Best Practice award which recognises the skilful use of touch and massage as a therapeutic means of calming and settling children.

The Story Massage Programme combines the benefits of positive touch with the fun and creativity of words in stories, rhyme or song, and teachers Louise Rutt and Kerry Brooks studied for two years to gain the award.  

Mrs Brooks said: “Sharing positive touch offers great scope for imaginative activity and learning for children of all ages and abilities. The benefits of positive touch are backed by extensive research and include improved calmness and concentration, increased self-confidence, self-awareness and self-esteem.

“There are also benefits in improved social skills, increased engagement in activities, better communication, respect and positive relationships.”

She added that there was also an educational element as the Story Massage Programme could be used to fit in with the national curriculum. Many children had learned their numbers and letters, plus history, geography and nature through massage stories.

Paul Rushforth, chief executive of the West Somerset Academies Trust, said: “We can’t underestimate the power of touch on young children. When used well, it is soothing, affirming and comforting. I’m delighted that St Peter’s is leading the way in its use.

“Kerry and Louise add special touches to their sessions including Story Stones and affirmation games. They take turns in making up stories and choosing which strokes to use.”

Mrs Rutt said: “Parents are invited to learn about the Story Massage Programme. We had one father of a boy with high SEN needs (special educational needs) tell us that it had a big impact on the whole family. He was now cuddling his son who had previously refused touch. The boy is sleeping much better too.”

Mrs Brooks added: “The Story Massage Programme can really help with behaviour. One SEN child was having regular outbursts. Over time, he started to ask for certain massage strokes when he was feeling uptight to help calm him down.”

Further information can be found at www.storymassage.co.uk