Edit Article

How to Prepare a Child for a Reflexology Session

Two Parts:Explaining Reflexology to the ChildMaking the Session ComfortableCommunity Q&A

Reflexology is a practice that can help kids feel better both mentally and physically. While it should not be used to treat or diagnose for any specific medical disorder, reflexology is not physically harmful and can promote relaxation and reduce tension. Explain reflexology carefully to the child and allow them to ask as many questions as they want. Make it clear that they are in control of how the session goes and make the experience as comfortable as possible.

Part 1
Explaining Reflexology to the Child

  1. 1
    Explain what reflexology is in simple terms. Reflexology should be explained clearly to children before any treatment begins. Tell them that this process involves someone gently pressing different spots on their feet or hands. Assert that it won't hurt them and that it's supposed to make them feel happier and healthier. [1]
    • Give examples of how some people believe reflexology has helped them feel better.
  2. 2
    Demonstrate reflexology on a doll or stuffed animal. Children may respond better to a visual demonstration of reflexology than to a verbal explanation. Place a teddy bear or doll on a chair with its feet elevated to show how gentle pressure is applied to the feet as well as the hands. Have the child try doing this as well.
    • Emphasize that this makes the doll or stuffed animal feel better and doesn't cause it any pain.
  3. 3
    Demonstrate reflexology on yourself to show that it is harmless and simple. Gain the trust of the child by repeating the motions you demonstrated on the bear on yourself. Apply gentle pressure to different points on your hands and feet, if possible. Seeing this therapy right in front of them may ease some concerns and uncertainty about it.
    • Ask the child if they want to try applying pressure on your hand or foot. This will make the process seem more cooperative than authoritative.
  4. 4
    Take time to answer any questions they have about reflexology. It is completely natural for anyone who is doing reflexology for the first time to have questions about it. Ask the child if they want to ask you anything and listen patiently while they inquire. Answer each question thoughtfully and in a way they can understand. [2]
    • Dismissing or ignoring questions could make the child feel uneasy about the process.

Part 2
Making the Session Comfortable

  1. 1
    Choose a calm, relaxing environment. For a child to benefit from a reflexology session, they must be able to concentrate and relax. Choose a room without distractions like television, toys, or other children. Playing soft music and lowering the lights slightly may help your child wind down for the session.[3]
  2. 2
    Ask the child for the okay before starting the session. Letting the child know that they have control over what happens to their body will help them feel comfortable during a reflexology session. Before starting, ask them if they are ready to begin. Do not start the session until they agree verbally.[4]
    • If you are doing reflexology in a school or community group, you will likely need a signed consent form from the child's parents.
  3. 3
    Use a very gentle touch to avoid discomfort. Reflexology requires only light pressure to different point on the feet and hands. Pressing too hard may make the child ticklish, cause discomfort, or feel aggressive. Be sure to use a very light touch and ask the child if they are okay with the pressure.[5]
    • If they are uncomfortable, ask them to demonstrate what level of pressure would be better on your hand.
  4. 4
    Stop the session if the child feels uncomfortable or restless. Reflexology will not have a positive effect if the child is not responsive to it. If a child seems uneasy or jumpy during the session, stop and offer to let them try the technique on your instead. If this doesn't interest them, allow them a break to play or relax and try again later.[6]

Community Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left

    Made Recently

    Did you try these steps?
    Upload a picture for other readers to see.
    Upload error

    Article Info

    Categories: Reflexology

    In other languages:

    Español: preparar a un niño para una sesión de reflexología, Русский: подготовить ребенка к сеансу рефлексологии, Português: Preparar uma Criança Para uma Sessão de Reflexologia, Italiano: Preparare un Bambino per una Sessione di Riflessologia


    Did this article help you?