Once we have our arms, we can make an indelible mark.

Of all the uses of our arms, hugging our children is one of the most important uses.

As a village, we are on an extended prayer marathon which has inspired the thought I have coined as intercessory embrace. This is the act of pulling someone into an embrace with the intention to beseech God on his/her behalf overtly or covertly.

Hugs are reassuring. Our children need constant reassurance. There are many things, on a daily basis, which have the potential to cause a feeling of overwhelm for these small, immature human beings. It cannot be ok for them to be left to navigate the frights of life, the anxieties, the highs and lows on their own. Time may be scarce for their caregivers, but to hug, definitely will not topple our boats if we pause to just hug our children.

Denying our children of the benefits of our hugs can cause damage for a very long time. On the other hand, hugging our children can, and will result in returns that far exceeds our expectations. Pause and think about what a hug does for you, an adult.

Did you know that hugging your children can:

•        Help to curb undesirable behaviours

•        Help to lesson trauma

•        Give a sense of safety

•        Boost their confidence

•        Increase performance in school

•        End temper tantrums

•        Improve health

•        Helps with stress management and

•        Improve the parent-child bond.

Can we depend on you to make a difference by making a habit of hugging your child/children?