How do you cuddle a child?

Question

My sister's kid is coming to stay. Do you like rub their back or something? I don't know how to go about it - I haven't been around kids a lot.

Answer 1

You don't really need to know how to cuddle a child. Basically, they're going to want to get used to you first. If after a little while (hours, days, whatever it is) they suddenly think you are the coolest person ever (as kids do sometimes) then they'll be the one hugging you. That's all you have to do - and hug them back. You don't want to get in their space trying to hug them and rub their back right away, because you may be in the 'stranger' zone (everyone gets in there now and then)... even dads who are away for a long period of time go into the 'stranger' zone when they get home. The kids have to get used to you, or used to you all over again. Just let them have some room and they will come to you! Have a fun time! Make sure you do fun stuff with them, games, coloring, crafts, depending on how old they are. Trips to the park, etc. Kids will love you for making their day fun.

Answer 2

Just hold them close, rub their back, stroke their hair...kiss their cheek....just....cuddle!! If they aren't use to you either, they might not want to for a time.

Answer 3

Children will you tell by their actions what contact they want.  Just go with the flow, relax and let them come to you.

One of the loveliest things in the world is to feel a tiny hand get hold of yours.

Answer 4

How do you cuddle anyone you care about?  It's not a duty, you do it because you want to.  I have never thought about how I cuddle my daughter, it's just instinctive.  I want her to feel loved and protected.  I give her full on both arm hugs and hold her close and kiss her head.  I tell her I love her and that she's a special little girl.  Kids just need to feel secure and loved and they'll make you feel secure and loved in return.

Answer 5

I agree with the first answer. Do whatever comes naturally to you. I'm sure you'll do fine. :-)

Answer 6

hold them how youd of liked to be held when u were a kid x

Answer 7

basically, let them take the lead.

There is nothing worse than an overbaring relative homing in on you for a cuddle.

If they are upset or hurt they will take the initiative and come and sit on your lap etc for comfort and all you can do is follow your insticnts (you WILL be fine).

You didn't say how old the child is, this makes a huge difference....anyone over about 7 will HATE a cuddle from an uncle, however..... if they are 16 you had better leave well alone!

Answer 8

well, if it's not your kid you really don't need to cuddle him anyway, so don't worry.  You'd probably be cool with the occasional hug.

Answer 9

Don't force a child into being cuddled. Just be open and approachable. My little cousins come up to me when they are hurt or upset and sit down in my lap or lay their head on my chest and then I do what feels natural. I.e. rub their back, stroke their hair, kiss their head. You'll be fine.

Answer 10

u sit w/ them and u put your arm around them or whatever then u let them put there head on ur ribs i guess.. i cant really describe it

Answer 11

Gosh I hope you won't be responsible for this child. If you can't figure out how to cuddle a child how will you even manage?

EDIT: sorry but I would NEVER leave my child with someone who would have to ask this question. Your sister is nuts. Do you even know how to keep a child safe? Do you know anything about caring for a child? How does someone not know how to cuddle a person? thumb me down all you want...your all bad parents if you would leave your kids with someone who would have to ask this question.

Answer 12

Some kids are soothed differently, I loved it when an adult man stroked my forehead as a child...I found it very soothing. I also liked sitting on someone's lap with one arm around me close to their body but facing away from them.

Answer 13

Sit them on your lap and give them a hug, read them a story, hold them close, tickle them - those are all things my 19 month old son enjoys!

Answer 14

Aww your sweet to worry about that, just give a normal hug like you would anyone, kids are great, they'll just hug you right back.  Let them come to you.

Answer 15

Cuddling usually involves holding and hugging.  Just do what feels natural to you.

:-)

Answer 16

You snuggle with them; hug them, hold them. You can sing quietly to them, rub their back. It's all about making the child feel safe, secure, and loved.