Gentle, effective healing for infants, children, and teens using specialized techniques designed specifically for young, developing bodies. Our pediatric approach combines the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine with child-friendly methods that support healthy growth, development, and natural well being.
Children respond remarkably well to gentle interventions, often requiring fewer treatments than adults while achieving lasting results. We create a safe, comfortable environment where both children and parents feel at ease throughout the healing process.
Shonishin (Japanese Pediatric Acupuncture)
Gentle, needle-free technique using specialized tools to stimulate acupoints through light tapping, stroking, and pressing. Particularly effective for digestive issues, respiratory, and immune health, sleep problems, behavioral concerns, and supporting overall development in infants and young children
Pediatric Cupping
Modified gentle suction technique using smaller cups and lighter pressure to improve circulation and support respiratory health, stress, and anxiety in children
Child-Friendly Chinese Herbs & Essential Oils
Custom formulations and gentle teas address childhood conditions
Dietary & Lifestyle Guidance for Families
Age-appropriate nutrition recommendations, sleep optimization, and stress management techniques that support the whole family’s wellness
Creating Comfort: We begin by allowing children to explore our treatment room and tools, answering questions in age-appropriate language. Parents remain present throughout all treatments, creating a secure environment for healing.
Gentle Assessment: Pediatric diagnosis focuses on observation, gentle pulse taking, and simple tongue examination. We assess constitution, energy patterns, and developmental progress while keeping children engaged and comfortable.
Treatment Experience: Shonishin treatments involve gentle, rhythmic movements with specialized tools that most children find soothing and enjoyable. Sessions are adapted to each child’s attention span and comfort level.
Family Involvement: Parents receive guidance on supporting healing at home through appropriate nutrition, lifestyle adjustments, and simple massage and other techniques they can use between treatments to maintain progress.
Results Timeline: Children often respond within 1-3 treatments due to their strong vital energy and openness to healing. Acute conditions may resolve quickly, while developmental or chronic issues benefit from regular support over several months.
Mari is an award-winning pediatric acupuncturist with specialized training in Shonishin — a gentle Japanese technique designed specifically for children. She uses non-insertive tools and energy healing methods that are completely comfortable for young patients. She has successfully treated children from 3 days old through their teenage years.
When performed by trained practitioners, pediatric acupuncture is safe. We primarily use Shonishin — a gentle, needle-free Japanese technique that stimulates acupoints through light tapping and stroking with specialized tools. For older children who may receive needles, we use the thinnest possible needles with very shallow insertion and shorter treatment times.
Most children find Shonishin treatments soothing and enjoyable. The gentle tapping and stroking motions are rhythmic and calming, similar to a gentle massage. We take time to show children our tools, let them explore, and explain everything in age-appropriate language. Parents stay present throughout all treatments, and we never force treatment on an unwilling child.
Pediatric acupuncture is effective for many childhood issues including colic, digestive issues, sleep issues, frequent illness, asthma, allergies, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, anxiety, behavioral concerns, bedwetting, growing pains, and developmental support. We also support children through stressful life changes and help strengthen overall foundational support and immune function.
Children typically respond much faster than adults due to their strong vital energy and openness to healing. Many acute conditions improve within 1-3 treatments, while chronic or developmental issues may benefit from weekly treatments over several months. We adjust treatment frequency based on your child’s response and comfort level.
We can safely treat infants from birth onward. Shonishin is particularly gentle for newborns and babies, helping with issues like colic, sleep disturbances, and feeding difficulties. Treatment approaches are modified based on developmental stage — what works for a toddler differs from techniques used with teenagers.
Explain that they’ll meet someone who helps children feel better using gentle tools that don’t hurt. Let them know you’ll stay with them the entire time. Bring comfort items like favorite toys or blankets, and schedule appointments when your child is typically alert and cooperative rather than during nap times or when they’re usually hungry or cranky.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider for medical advice.
For pediatric care in the East Bay, Mari Kubota L.Ac. combines Traditional Chinese Medicine with specialized approaches to support your child’s health and development.