Help Wanted...No more hugs & kisses

[wmcm]

My 6 year old son has pulled away and doesn't like us to show affection to him now. Is this a common problem? This is his first year of school and so I can understand he'd be uncomfortable of hugs and kisses in public, in front of people, but he's the same way at home, in private. We've always been a snuggly family, but he resists our hugs and kisses, and doesn't like to snuggle, even at bedtime. What can I do? I want to respect his wishes, but I'm worried.

[KelEMcE]

Is it an age thing? My daughter is the same age and still kisses us on the lips - but not so much in front of her friends as she used to. Maybe he's asserting his independence from the family? I'd ask the doctor if this is typical - I know that always makes me feel better, no matter what is going on, if I hear that it's a totally typical thing and lots of kids do it!

But I say keep hugging and kissing!

[wmcm]

I know what you mean; as long as somebody elses child is doing the same thing, somehow it brings me comfort. This is really breaking my heart though. He is a kind-hearted boy, so I'm really confused by this. It started early December and is showing no sign of letting up anytime soon. I thought I'd have til he was 10 or so til this stuff kicked in. Thanks for your input.

[bkmev]

Have you tried having a conversation with him. Maybe he will tell you why!

At this age they hear and see so much at school and from other kids, it is not the same as when we were kids.

The media is so much more open about stuff. Kids are exposed to more TV and nes then past generations.

Some kids no matter how much you want to cuddle, just are not comfortable hugging.

[Hthr]

Have you asked him why he doesn't want hugs/kisses/cuddling anymore?

I wouldn't be shocked if it's his classmates. My cousin started his first year of school recently too and my aunt was helping him get ready and when she pulled out a Cars (the movie) T-shirt he said he didn't want to wear it and he'd always loved Cars. So, my aunt asked him and he told her that the other kids had made fun of him for liking Cars and told him, "Only babies like Cars."

There's still the chance that it's just a phase or maybe that's just how his personality is developing and he just doesn't feel like the "touchy feely" type. All I can say is talk to him.

[JWills]

I was the same way, although I cannot pinpoint exactly what age it started. It started off as "no more public kisses" (hugs were forgivable). Then, it went into private kisses. Those became off limit as well. I dont know why, honestly. I knew my dad was hurt by it. But, on that note, it was not because I hated my parents, or didnt love them anymore. I was just really independant, and I kinda felt like I didnt need "kissies".