If they choose not to be hugged or touched, I always respect that. Only do it if children don t mind it. Never force it upon a child. They may be told at home that nobody should touch them or they may have sensory issues. Depending upon the age of the child.
Young children receive full body hugs.
After the third or fourth grade, I give side hugs or back rubs or pats on the back. No 91 Hugging is fine, even encouraged. We are encouraged to avoid hugging most of the time. No, much to my chagrin. I think it is important to have some policy in place to protect staff as well as students.