Find as many opportunities as you can throughout each day to hug your child, remembering that hugs can say: • I love you • You are precious • I am proud of you • I am glad you are my child • You did a great job • You’re safe • I am sorry • I am sorry you’re sad • I am glad you’re happy • I just love you for being you

You can also:

• Make cards with promises of hugs

• Make hug vouchers that your child can redeem at any time

Did you know:

• Touch is vital to wellbeing.

• Young children need four hugs a day for survival, eight hugs a day for maintenance, and 12 hugs a day for growth (http://www.lifepositive.com/mind/personal-growth/hug/hug-therapy.asp)

What your child is learning:

• They are loved

• Connection with others

• Trust

• That they have personal worth regardless of their ability or today’s behaviour

• Relationships are important