"The story's gentle humor and warm, friendly illustrations make this
book a welcome SEL tool for homes and classrooms."--Elizabeth Verdick,
author of the "Best Behavior" series (Teeth Are Not for Biting,
Voices Are Not for Yelling, Words Are Not for Hurting)
Sticky hugs. Tight hugs. Smooching hugs. Too MANY hugs! Theo loves his
family, but too many hugs is, well, too many.
"When he feels overhugged, Theo takes action....The important message
about bodily autonomy is clearly stated and further articulated for
parents in the backmatter...given that all children should learn to ask
before giving a hug and to expect the same from others, it's one that
many little ones will benefit from reading."--Kirkus Reviews
In this adorable--but important--book on consent, Theo teaches his
family about the need for respect and personal boundaries. After a day
of too many hugs, he writes his five rules for hugging and puts them on
the refrigerator. When Grandma comes in for a smacking, smooching hug,
she sees the rules and stops. "How about a hug?" she asks. Theo can't
wait to say, "YES!"
Why does consent matter? Research shows that helping kids learn to take
charge of their bodies and decide for themselves what is welcome (or
unwelcome) touch is a critical step to empowering them against abuse.
Asking--not demanding--a hug from a child teaches him that he matters as
a person and that he is as deserving of respect as a grownup.
Too Many Hugs is a funny, powerful way to get that life-changing
lesson started!
