Boy in DD's class - personal space issue

[LoveableLou]

Our DD has just started in Year 2 and since Reception has been friendly with a little boy in her class. On several occasions at parties, school events etc. he's quite full on with her, gets really close to her face and cuddles/squeezes DD. We raised it with her Y1 teacher to see if she could gently encourage him to give her a bit of space but it's still happening.

My DH is really bothered by it, but I'm not sure what can be done other than raise it again. I'm not convinced it's a sign of anything major and the boy is likely finding out to interact with other children.

Any thoughts?

he's quite full on with her, gets really close to her face and cuddles/squeezes DD.

I'm with your husband I wouldn't be ok with that. This child is 6 he should already know this is unacceptable behaviour. I would definitely raise it with the teacher so they have it on their radar.

I’d work with DD on saying “no hugs, give me space” and walking away. Teacher should be aware and let you know if it’s an issue at school but DD also needs to learn to use her voice and say no to behaviour she doesn’t like.

Thank you for that, it's really useful to have a different perspective. Maybe it's time to raise it again.

I think it’s never too early to teach kids that they should not have to tolerate people in their personal space

I think it sends a message that we should put up with it, not make a fuss etc

and hopefully not sounding too dramatic but in older interactions not feeling able to say - get off / back off / that’s not OK - is a big deal

don’t inadvertently let your DD think she’s got to put up with it, teach her it’s not OK
speak to school about this not being OK
and the lad can’t keep his hands to himself, and appropriate distance, then report higher in the school