For the past decade, the Teaching Research Institute and the Qigong Sensory Training Institute have been researching the effectiveness of using a daily massage program with children ages 2-6 with autism. The program of massage given by trained parents has been shown in research studies to be effective in reversing sensory difficulties and improving behavior. As children become more comfortable with touch, they are calmer, better able to focus and learn, and exhibit better behavior overall. 

The program is now extending the research to older children. Enrollment is currently open for children with autism ages 6 to 11 to participate in a research study that will allow families to receive training and support in the intervention. Families enrolled in the study receive more than $1,500 worth of services for free, including training, treatment and assessments. Teaching Research Institute is conducting the research on this intervention with a three-year grant from the U.S. Health & Human Services' Maternal and Child Health Bureau, grant #R40MC24945.

See the Qigong Research Press Release for enrollment information and details.