Do Your Kids Not Want to Hug Their Relatives? Parents, Here Are 6 Things to Consider During the Holiday Season by Jill Ceder, LMSW, JD

Parenting Holidays
4 years ago

Do Your Kids Not Want to Hug Their Relatives? Parents, Here Are 6 Things to Consider During the Holiday Season

With the holidays right around the corner, you kids may be around lots of friends and family they don't see on a regular basis. Do your relatives and friends want to hug and kiss your kids, but they refuse? How should parents handle that? Here's what I think: 

  • Affection should never be forced. 
  • Teach kids to respect their bodies.
  • Teach kids to respect others.
  • Be a positive role model. Display good communication skills and strong boundaries.
  • Deal with your relatives' hurt feelings. Explain your policy.
  • If you children don’t want to give or receive hugs, encourage them to think of others and to say “hello” with a handshake or high-five. 

Offer choices so they feel in control of their bodies and feelings.

What do you think?

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Jennison Grigsby
I see this more and more and really appreciate that parents are learning to never insist on physical affection.
Donna John
Great topic, Jill Ceder, LMSW, JD . Look forward to seeing what everyone thinks.

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