Kids Massage & The Importance of Consent

Massage therapy has numerous benefits, ranging from stress reduction to improved sleep quality and even enhanced immune function. At Back At It we require parents to be present during their child’s treatment. A legal guardian must sign the waiver. This is located in the regular intake form. The therapist then discuss the standard intake protocol (risks, benefits, treatment plan, areas to be worked on) with the legal guardian and child in the treatment room. 

Back At It Therapists Obligations:

• The therapists must inform the legal guardian and child of the nature and duration of the treatment. 
• The guardian must enter the treatment room with the child and discuss with the therapist the treatment plan and give consent to treatment. 
• The therapists must provide reasons for specific treatment and areas being addressed during treatment.
• The therapist will create an expected outcome for the treatment, to which the child and legal guardian understand and agree.
• The therapist will explain before treatment begins, that the child has the opportunity to stop or modify the treatment at any given time.
• Medical terminology should be used but also explained in layman terms.

Obtaining consent from both children and their parents before a massage is crucial for several reasons:

Legal and Ethical Obligations: 

From a legal and ethical standpoint, obtaining consent from both parties ensures that the massage therapist is acting in accordance with professional standards and guidelines. It respects the rights of both the child and the parent in making informed decisions about the treatment.

The  importance of the parent being present:

Children may not always fully understand the implications of receiving massage therapy, especially if they are younger or have cognitive or developmental challenges. Parental consent ensures that parents or guardians can assess whether the treatment is appropriate for their child’s physical and emotional well-being and can advocate for their child’s best interests.

Safety and Comfort: 

Massage therapy obviously involves physical touch, so parental consent allows parents to evaluate the qualifications and reputation of the massage therapist, ensuring that the child receives treatment from a trusted and competent professional. It also provides an opportunity for parents to communicate any specific concerns or preferences regarding the massage session, such as areas of sensitivity or discomfort.

Trust and Communication: 

Seeking consent from both children and their parents fosters an atmosphere of trust and open communication between all parties involved. It empowers children to have a voice in their healthcare decisions and encourages them to express any preferences or concerns they may have about the treatment. Additionally, it allows parents to be actively involved in their child’s healthcare journey, promoting collaboration and shared decision-making.

Legal Liability and Accountability: 

Having documented consent from both the child and their parent provides legal protection for the massage therapist and ensures accountability for all parties involved. It establishes a clear understanding of the terms and conditions of the treatment and mitigates the risk of misunderstandings.

In summary, obtaining consent from both children and their parents before a massage is essential for upholding legal and ethical standards, promoting safety and comfort, fostering trust and communication, and minimizing legal liability and accountability. It establishes a collaborative and respectful relationship between the massage therapist, the child, and their parent, ultimately contributing to a positive and effective therapeutic experience.