DD (5) is a very huggy, touchy-feely type child. I've told her a few times she mustn't touch/stroke her Reception class friends' faces as not everyone likes this. She also has been told not to hug inappropriately, e.g. teachers, TAs etc. I've said how she hugs and loves close family is great, but that sort of behaviour is not acceptable outside of home with less familiar people. She has a tendency to get too close to others occasionally. Not all the time, just sometimes.
The other day, she hugged her swimming instructor as she got excited that she'd mastered a certain technique. I'd reminded her she mustn't do hug especially her swimming instructor. He recoiled and said "Whoa, DD, too close!". So he obviously felt his personal space was invaded. She said it's because she likes him as she does her school friends and teachers. She just doesn't always get it.
She's pretty bright having been told she's exceeded all Reception-age targets and will commence Year 1 work after Easter.
How do DH and I teach her not to invade other people's personal space? Has anyone else had such an issue? What became of it and how did you deal with it?
Help appreciated, thanks MNers!