I recently witnessed something within a school that as an OT I thought was amazing!

As I stood waiting in the reception there was a boy who had clearly had a tough day standing with a member of staff. He wanted to leave at the front door but it wasn't the end of the school day just yet.

The member of staff he was with remained calm, didn't overwhelm him with language, had visuals on hand to support his communication and was able to provide him with what he needed....regulation.

The child engaged in a phonics task while seated. Pointing to the letter on a card for the lady with him to read out.

After this he was encouraged to transition back to class. He wasn't ready just yet and was able to communicate this very well. Instead of trying again, the lady offered her visuals to the child and he selected 'squeeze'. She gave him a tight squeeze and provided him with the sensory input and security he needed at that time. She didn't place any further demands on the child and waited until her requested 'squeeze' a few more times to support him.

You might be sat reading this and thinking what was so amazing about that situation Emma?

Well...

• The lady supporting him was able to remain calm to be available to co-regulate

• Language was simple and time to process was provided

• The child was able to link the symbol with what he wanted and successfully communicated this

• No additional demands were placed on him

• The strategies that the child requested supported his regulation and helped him transition back to class

Those simple hugs made such a huge impact on how he was feeling and how the rest of his afternoon went.

There's a quote by Virginia Satir which highlights the importance of hugs.

“We need 4 hugs a day for survival.We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance.We need 12 hugs a day for growth.”

―Virginia Satir

How many have you had today?