Today is a day when I have truly counted my blessings. I am one of the lucky ones. I have always had a loving and supportive family network, including an amazingly supportive partner (despite me giving up a well-paid job for a new, passion-led (poorly paid) Trauma Informed career!)
Hugs are so important to me as they are one of many ways we can show we care about each other. So it got me thinking about colleagues over the years who have worked in schools that have a ‘no touch’ policy between staff and children. It makes me so sad. Of course, we have to be aware of safeguarding around this issue but who is the policy for? So many children over my years teaching, have hugely benefitted from a hug. It gives a feeling of safety, comfort, increases self-esteem and actually boosts oxytocin levels which can be depleted in our trauma experienced children. Most importantly it shows that you care.
I wish you all many hugs on “I Care About You” Day and look forward to National Hug Day in January!