We all have experienced it- that strange feeling that something isn’t quite right. Of course, gut instincts aren’t 100% accurate, but they should be trusted. Children get these feelings also, but they may not know what to do with them. That is why it is very important to tell your child to trust gut instincts, especially when the instinct is telling your child that he doesn’t want to be touched by someone.
Every child needs 
to be taught that she has the right NOT to be touched. Whether it is a friend or family member, no one has the right to hug, touch, or kiss her, unless she wants that to happen.
There are three important things a child needs to do if he gets that weird feeling:
- Tell the person that he does not want a hug (or whatever physical contact is being suggested) in a polite manner.
- Offer an excuse. Explain to your child this is one time where a white lie is ok. (I have told my children to say they have a cold starting or don’t like to give hugs anymore.)
- Tell a grown-up that he trusts about this weird feeling.
As a parent, support your child in this decision. She needs to know that you support her for not wanting to hug, touch, or kiss whomever. Making your child feel safe and secure is the most important thing.
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I’m a very strong believer in “gut feelings” even as an adult. I have them very rarely, but in just about every case my suspicion that something was “off” about a person was confirmed by experience.
Found your blog via Entrecard, and I’m glad I did. Well written, and a clean & elegant design. Nice to be here.