When you want to talk about hugs being a choice
A short cartoon about saying no to a hug and choosing a wave, starring your child. Watch it together at a calm time, then talk.
An example story beginning for this moment. It is not a cartoon of your own story.
Cartoons are made with AI. You preview each one before your child sees it. Automatic checks can miss things.
Let's imagine
Example, made with AI
Aunt Rosa arrives with her arms wide open for a hug. Mia (5) steps behind her dad. "No hug today," she says, in a small, clear voice. Dad kneels beside her. "Okay. You get to choose." Mia thinks, and then she waves. Aunt Rosa waves back with a big smile. "Hello, Mia. A wave is a lovely hello." Biscuit wags his tail, and Mia waves again.
The characters in this example are made up. Your child can be the hero, with or without a photo.
What happens in the story
In the example above:
- Mia says what she wants in plain words: no hug today.
- Her dad kneels beside her and says she gets to choose.
- Mia chooses a wave, and her aunt waves back with a smile.
- Nobody is upset. The greeting goes on, Mia's way.
Talk-after card
Here are three gentle questions to talk about after this example. Best watched together, then followed by a chat or a game.
- What did Aunt Rosa do when she came in? What did Mia say?
- What did Dad say? How did Mia say hello?
- How do you like to say hello: a wave, a high five, a hug, or something else? You choose.
Use the ones that feel right. Skip any you like.
What a cartoon can and can't do
- This is a way to start a conversation about saying no. It is not a safety program, and it can't take the place of the grown-ups who look after your child.
- Each Zubby cartoon is made to be talked about together. It can't do the work of routine, patience or your child's doctor.
- If you are worried about your child's sleep, eating, fears or behavior, talk to your child's doctor, nurse or teacher.