These days with information freely available through many channels it is harder to control how much children can see or hear, especially when it comes to tragic events involving other children, for instance. Or devastating natural disasters where the sheer scale of the destruction is hard to understand or explain.
When bad things happen it can be hard to find comforting words. Sometimes a hug will do. Hugging is proven to make us healthier and happier. Touch is another way that we can express a wide range of important emotions to another person, including anger, fear, love, gratitude, happiness, sadness, sympathy, empathy and understanding. Scientists say that supporting a person through touch can reduce their stress and that of the person doing the comforting.
How to hug
A good, genuine hug requires both the ‘hugger’, and the ‘huggee’ to be willing. They face each other, embrace with their bodies touching, and focus on offering comfort. They should be close enough for the hugger’s heartbeat to synchronise with the huggee’s. They should embrace until they’re ready to release, not a moment before.
If we can’t find the right words, remember hugging is a very comforting and communicative type of touch. It really makes things better and is always the right size.
Anyone who works with children and young people knows it’s important to give them space and time to talk about what is happening in the wider world, whether the issue is climate change, cost of living, conflict, or tragedy.
Some may feel uncomfortable about talking to a grown-up. They might prefer talking with other young people or expressing their thoughts and feelings through creative activities, like drawing, listening to or creating music or writing. Consider also that they may want to keep their thoughts and feelings private. Give them the time and support they need to understand what they’re feeling. Encourage them to learn to ask for hugs from their loved ones when words aren’t enough.
Resources, such as the NSPCC have a list of useful strategies.