NewsLocal News

Actions

Don't force girls to give hugs over the holidays: Girl Scouts

Posted
and last updated

The Girls Scouts of the USA is reminding parents not to force daughters to hug guests this holiday season, KABC reported.

The organization argues forcing daughters to show affection could give them the wrong idea about consent and physical affection.

"Plus, sadly, we know that some adults prey on children, and teaching your daughter about consent early on can help her understand her rights, know when lines are being crossed, and when to go to you for help," Girl Scouts' developmental psychologist Dr. Andrea Bastiani Archibald said.

Girl Scout leaders urge parents to give their daughters space to decide how and when she wants to show affection.

Some examples suggested include verbalizing how much she's missed someone, giving a high-five or maybe an air kiss. It's important she knows that she gets to choose what's comfortable.

This story was originally published by KABC.

,

Weather

Daily Forecast

View Hourly Forecast

Day

Conditions

HI / LO

Precip

Wednesday

12/10/2025

AM Fog/PM Sun

53° / 41°

4%

Thursday

12/11/2025

AM Fog/PM Sun

54° / 42°

12%

Friday

12/12/2025

Partly Cloudy

59° / 45°

7%

Saturday

12/13/2025

Partly Cloudy

61° / 45°

3%

Sunday

12/14/2025

Mostly Sunny

57° / 44°

4%

Monday

12/15/2025

Mostly Sunny

57° / 45°

5%

Tuesday

12/16/2025

Partly Cloudy

59° / 47°

3%

Wednesday

12/17/2025

Partly Cloudy

59° / 48°

3%