Why do my second graders randomly hug me?

Question

I don't have a problem with it...I love kids, but I just wonder why they do it.

I understand if I've just done something nice for them or if they haven't seen me in awhile, but sometimes I'll be explaining an assignment to them, or reading a story, or sitting at my desk grading papers, and they just come up and hug me.

Why? Is it that they're not getting attention at home? Again, I don't mind it, just wondering why. I'm a first year teacher with no children of my own.

Answer 1

OMG--this is so funny. I taught my first and second graders this morning (I'm a subject specialist), and a couple of them just came up and hugged me, too! It's happened before (and my K students do it all the time, although my pre-K students don't at all--go figure), but it didn't happen in the beginning of the year. In fact, since I see them only twice per week, I wondered if they even remembered who I was for a while. Now I take it as a sign that they are comfortable with me, and perhaps--gasp!--they even like the class! The cutest thing is one little boy who, when he wants my attention, will take my hand and lead me to his desk for help.

I imagine that some kids also view their teachers as "friends with authority" or something like that and can't express their affection for that sort of a creature verbally.

In any event, I'm sure that my classes are full of kids who are well-loved (I know some of their parents). I actually think their behavior is kind of cute and sweet.

P.S. My two girls are two of my students (preK and K), and they're more likely to hug me in the halls outside of class, or on the playground, than during class. Go figure!

Answer 2

I feel a little awkward saying this, especially being the first male to post on this.

I loved my 1st-grade teacher. She was pretty much the first woman I liked. I know it sounds weird, but I was young.

You, as a teacher, are someone very important to the children. They look up to you in a lot of ways, that position conveys a level of affection that children need at some points.

I assume from their repeated hugging of you that you are a nice teacher. You represent what could be a child's favorite authority figure outside of the home. You have authority but are kind and fun, so they like you a lot.

Are their actions abnormal. No, I think its sweet. I think you should just take it as verification that you are doing a good job on an interpersonal level.

Answer 3

I teach K-5 and have received hugs from all levels. The little kids are so full of love and maybe are not able to express this at home. I think it is great that they feel comfortable enough with you to give hugs.

Also, I heard this in college and wasn't sure I believed it, but I've seen it happen. These kids do really crave authority and boundaries in their lives. You are someone who's giving them boundaries and they are enjoying it. The kids can yap as much as they want about not wanting rules and regulations, but they sure feel safe and cared for when they get them. Don't ever feel bad for sticking to your procedures and punishments. They need to know you are consistent and they will care about you even more.

Sounds to me like you are doing a good job. Keep it up and enjoy the love!

Answer 4

I'm no psychologist but maybe they need to feel loved at that moment. Some kids need more affection than others and it may not necessarily mean that they are not getting it at home. Some might just need it from a number of sources. And then again, maybe you are just a great teacher and they love you.

Answer 5

Some children sometimes just need to hug someone and being that you are their teacher your the best person at the time.

Answer 6

Maybe they think your the best teacher ever

maybe they look up to you

maybe they like hugs.........

Answer 7

Awwe! That's sweet! I think they just really love you! You must be a really great teacher and they feel comfortable with you!