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Girl Scouts: Don't force daughters to hug, kiss relatives

<p>The Girl Scouts of America posted an article on their website instructing parents not to encourage their daughters to hug or kiss relatives just because that person wants them to.</p>

News 12 Staff

Nov 22, 2017, 10:28 PM

Updated 2,575 days ago

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Girl Scouts: Don't force daughters to hug, kiss relatives
The Girl Scouts of America posted an article on their website instructing parents not to encourage their daughters to hug or kiss relatives just because that person wants them to.
The blog post entitled "Reminder: She Doesn't Owe Anyone a Hug. Not Even at the Holidays" aims to teach kids about consent at an early age. 
Laura Ahearn, of Parents for Megan's Law, says it's a great lesson for all children.
"It's a step in the right direction…Physical contact is about a decision someone gets to make. Not about someone telling them to do it," says Ahearn. 
Jason Pastore, of Central Islip, says he understands the thought process behind the warning but doesn't expect to make any changes in his home this holiday season. 
"I think you should hug and kiss your family as much as you possibly can," says Pastore. 
The Girl Scouts' post isn't recommending a total ban on hugs and kisses this holiday season. The article points out that it is "lovely" if a young girl wants to express affection, as it's her decision.