How hugs make your child happier and smarter

In a world filled with hustle and bustle, there’s something profoundly magical about a simple hug. A parent-embracing child doesn’t just feel good, it’s a powerhouse of health, happiness, and intelligence. Yes, you read that right – hugs are not just warm and fuzzy gestures; they are crucial for your child’s overall well-being.

Picture this: every time you wrap your arms around your little one, a hormone called oxytocin floods their body. Often dubbed the “love hormone,” oxytocin works wonders in boosting positive emotions with each squeeze.

The wonder extends far beyond a warm fuzzy feeling. Research suggests that skin-to-skin contact in the precious first hours of a baby’s life can work wonders. Dr Susan Crowe, an obstetrician at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, highlights how this initial bonding time helps regulate a newborn’s temperature, heartbeat, and breathing. White the baby finds solace, the mother, too, experiences a wave of relaxation hormones.

The power of long hugs:

And let’s not forget about the power of oxytocin when it comes to alleviating anxiety. Long hugs have been shown to release oxytocin, effectively balancing out stress hormones in your child’s body.

Immune-boosting hugs:

Hugs aren’t just good for the heart; they’re good for the immune system too. That’s right – increased levels of oxytocin from hugs can give your child’s immune system the boost it needs to ward off those pesky bugs and germs.

Hugs for self-esteem and compassion:

Hugs are more than just physical gestures. They’re tiny seeds of self-esteem, confidence, compassion, and empathy. With each embrace, you’re not just wrapping your child in your arms; you’re wrapping them in a cloak of emotional resilience that will serve them well throughout life’s journey. When you shower your child with hugs and affection, it sends a powerful message: “You are loved, you are valued, and you are worthy.”

Soothing Hugs:

Toddlers are like little emotional sponges – they soak up every experience, big or small. So, when your toddler is feeling upset or overwhelmed, a hug can work wonders. It’s a gentle reminder that they’re not alone, that they’re loved beyond measure, even amid their biggest storms.

Hugs for the brain and body:

From the moment they’re born, babies crave physical touch. It’s like their way of saying, “Hey, I’m here, and I need your love and support.” But perhaps one of the most fascinating aspects of hugs is their role in shaping the developing brain and body. From the tender embrace of kangaroo care in the NICU to the everyday hugs shared between parent and child, physical touch is like fertiliser for the growing mind and body. It’s the secret ingredient that nourishes the soul and strengthens the bond between parent and child.

Building trust and reducing fear: When you hug your child, you’re not just wrapping your arms around them – you’re wrapping them in a cocoon of love and security. Each hug strengthens the bond between you and your child, building trust and reducing fear. It’s like your way of saying, “No matter what happens, I’ll always be here for you.”

Here’s the bottom line – hug your child. Hug them tight, hug them often, and never underestimate the power of a simple embrace. Just 20 seconds a day can make all the difference in stimulating their emotional, cognitive, and physical development.

In a world that can sometimes feel chaotic and overwhelming, hugs are like little moments of calm and connection. The next time your little one needs a pick-me-up, just wrap them in a big, bear hug and let oxytocin work its magic!