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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Is it ever appropriate to hug a naked child?

30 replies

Anon8642 · 23/08/2025 21:33

Just that really. If the child (F) is naked, should they routinely have a hug from the parent of the opposite sex (M)? Until what age/stage? And should that parent also be allowed to share a bed with them (not naked)?

Child claims nothing is wrong and they "like it". I am worried, but I am not sure how bad this is/what level of help to get. Nothing overtly bad/sexual is happening, but it just feels wrong.

OP posts:
tygertygers · 23/08/2025 21:39

I hugged my naked children all the time, what is wrong with that? They quickly got to the self conscious stage around 5 so it naturally stopped.

Anon8642 · 23/08/2025 21:38

SereneCoralDog · 23/08/2025 21:36

Why are you worried? How old is the child? Clearly 15 would be a far different situation to 5.

Pubescent

OP posts:
Cerialkiller · 23/08/2025 21:37

I would say pre-puberty. Maybe up to 10-11 max? My daughter is only 5 though, and my husband (her dad) is already wary about boundaries with both kids (boy and girl) especially touching/washing. They are never really in less than pants though unless washing.

SereneCoralDog · 23/08/2025 21:36

Why are you worried? How old is the child? Clearly 15 would be a far different situation to 5.

Stompythedinosaur · 23/08/2025 21:36

I think it's fine for a child to hug their parent of whatever gender until they feel uncomfortable about it!

I think my dds were 7-8ish when they started wanting privacy from their df.