Hug and squeeze time
2–3 yearsEmotional WellbeingNo materials needed
Set aside a moment each day for physical affection. This might be morning hugs, goodbye squeezes, or bedtime cuddles. Make it predictable so your child can expect this connection time.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Set aside a moment each day for physical affection. This might be morning hugs, goodbye squeezes, or bedtime cuddles. Make it predictable so your child can expect this connection time.
Let your child decide the length and type of affection. Some children want big bear hugs while others prefer gentle pats. Following their lead shows that their preferences in relationships matter.
Why It Works
Regular physical affection strengthens the parent-child bond and teaches children that relationships include warmth and care. Predictable connection moments create security.
Strong family connections serve as the foundation for all future relationships. Children with warm family bonds develop better emotional regulation and social skills (Harvard Center on the Developing Child, 2016).
Tips for Parents
Announce hug time with the same phrase each day. Something like "time for our special hug" creates a comforting ritual.
Respect if your child pulls away quickly. Even brief contact counts as connection for some children.
Add a simple phrase like "I love spending time with you" to pair words with the physical affection.
Materials Needed
None
Learning Methods
Social Learning Through PeersSymbolic and Pretend PlaySongs, Stories, and Rhymes
Loved this activity? Let us do the planning for you.
Imprint personalizes every activity to your child — their interests, their stage, the traits they're building — so playtime is more fun and every moment counts.
Science-backed. Private by design. No spam.