My son came home from school the other day, threw his backpack into the dining room, I asked him how his day went (fine) if he had any homework (no) and if he was sure he did not have any homework (uh, wait a minute, I dunno, maybe) he's 13, enough said.
"Oh, and hugging is now against the rules in the middle school."
Seriously, I thought he was kidding.
"No, seriously mom, they made an announcement and everything."
Aaaand, two questions immediately came to mind:
-
Who got caught doing what?
-
Aaaand, seriously?
I usually don't write about controversial sort of stuff AND at the risk of bringing on the torches and pitchforks: honestly, I get it. My kids are older. They attend 4 different schools. 3 of them are teens. I am way past knee-jerk reactions when it comes to this sort of stuff.
Mostly, because it takes me a good minute or 90 to really think about what's going on: gauging my reaction based on how it will affect my kid(s) and the decisions he or she makes, sometime down the road.
Aaaand, let me tell you, this particular parenting tactic does not fair well with teenagers — especially, when adopting the mantra of, "You know, adults make mistakes too!"
Throwing a bunch of nonsensical rules in their faces? In my humble opinion? Might as well save yourself a lot of time and aggravation: ask the kid to go ahead and just, you know, do whatever it is you don't want them to do.
Kids figure this sort of stuff out for themselves, with or without our help, pretty gosh-darned fast too.
With that said, before anyone starts believing I am anti-establishment or that I let my kids go all feral and everything (my 18 year-old still has a bedtime, just so you know) there should indeed be boundaries set: at home, as well as in school.
Aaaaand, therein lies the rub (pun intended!) call out the kid whose girlfriend is grinding down on his lap at lunchtime (true story) or the kids exploring each others tonsils in front of the 7th grade lockers and any boy who fondles or slaps a girl on her ass should be dealt with immediately.
Have the kid(s) take responsibility and answer to their inappropriate behavior, accordingly.
Aaaaand, if he or she happens to be my kid? Well then call me and rest assured I will indeed take care of my precious.
That's my job.
However, don't make me have to explain to my 10 year-old why hugging would be considered bad behavior: because, apparently, it is not allowed in her school either.
Besides, I don't need any help sounding any more stupid….than my kids already believe me to be…thankyouverymuch.
I'm a hugger, enough said.
© 2003 – 2012 This Full House
Note: Post title courtesy of my friend Gina — who texted me if I would post about this or not and then asked to be quoted — it's okay, she knows I'm a hugger, too.
Comments
120 responses to “Did We Not Learn Anything With Footloose?”
I am a hugger too. This sounds way over the top to me.
I’m going to let my kid hug anyone at school she wants to hug today (with all that hugging rebellion, it is probably a good thing we homeschool).
I am a hugger too. This sounds way over the top to me.
I’m going to let my kid hug anyone at school she wants to hug today (with all that hugging rebellion, it is probably a good thing we homeschool).
I am a hugger too. This sounds way over the top to me.
I’m going to let my kid hug anyone at school she wants to hug today (with all that hugging rebellion, it is probably a good thing we homeschool).
I am a hugger too. This sounds way over the top to me.
I’m going to let my kid hug anyone at school she wants to hug today (with all that hugging rebellion, it is probably a good thing we homeschool).
I am a hugger too. This sounds way over the top to me.
I’m going to let my kid hug anyone at school she wants to hug today (with all that hugging rebellion, it is probably a good thing we homeschool).
I am a hugger too. This sounds way over the top to me.
I’m going to let my kid hug anyone at school she wants to hug today (with all that hugging rebellion, it is probably a good thing we homeschool).
I am a hugger too. This sounds way over the top to me.
I’m going to let my kid hug anyone at school she wants to hug today (with all that hugging rebellion, it is probably a good thing we homeschool).
I am a hugger too. This sounds way over the top to me.
I’m going to let my kid hug anyone at school she wants to hug today (with all that hugging rebellion, it is probably a good thing we homeschool).
Way to “dance” around the true issue. I’d go to the school and hug that principal or teacher who put that rule in 😉
I want a hug from you in August! can’t wait for Blogher!!!
Way to “dance” around the true issue. I’d go to the school and hug that principal or teacher who put that rule in 😉
I want a hug from you in August! can’t wait for Blogher!!!
Way to “dance” around the true issue. I’d go to the school and hug that principal or teacher who put that rule in 😉
I want a hug from you in August! can’t wait for Blogher!!!
Way to “dance” around the true issue. I’d go to the school and hug that principal or teacher who put that rule in 😉
I want a hug from you in August! can’t wait for Blogher!!!
Way to “dance” around the true issue. I’d go to the school and hug that principal or teacher who put that rule in 😉
I want a hug from you in August! can’t wait for Blogher!!!
Way to “dance” around the true issue. I’d go to the school and hug that principal or teacher who put that rule in 😉
I want a hug from you in August! can’t wait for Blogher!!!
Way to “dance” around the true issue. I’d go to the school and hug that principal or teacher who put that rule in 😉
I want a hug from you in August! can’t wait for Blogher!!!
Way to “dance” around the true issue. I’d go to the school and hug that principal or teacher who put that rule in 😉
I want a hug from you in August! can’t wait for Blogher!!!
Wow, that just seems ridiculous. Making it a rule will do more harm than good-I guess they really didn’t learn from Footloose!
Wow, that just seems ridiculous. Making it a rule will do more harm than good-I guess they really didn’t learn from Footloose!
Wow, that just seems ridiculous. Making it a rule will do more harm than good-I guess they really didn’t learn from Footloose!
Wow, that just seems ridiculous. Making it a rule will do more harm than good-I guess they really didn’t learn from Footloose!
Wow, that just seems ridiculous. Making it a rule will do more harm than good-I guess they really didn’t learn from Footloose!
Wow, that just seems ridiculous. Making it a rule will do more harm than good-I guess they really didn’t learn from Footloose!
Wow, that just seems ridiculous. Making it a rule will do more harm than good-I guess they really didn’t learn from Footloose!
Wow, that just seems ridiculous. Making it a rule will do more harm than good-I guess they really didn’t learn from Footloose!
Hi Patty,
He's an excellent Principal and the Vice-Principal was more than fair when dealing with my son over an altercation earlier in the year. And I am in no way attacking their abilities as school administrators. However, this whole "banning" thing is on my last nerve and frankly you're right…in this case, they are dancing around the real issue. It's just silly.
Can't wait to hug you at BlogHer either 🙂
Hugs,
Liz
Hi Patty,
He's an excellent Principal and the Vice-Principal was more than fair when dealing with my son over an altercation earlier in the year. And I am in no way attacking their abilities as school administrators. However, this whole "banning" thing is on my last nerve and frankly you're right…in this case, they are dancing around the real issue. It's just silly.
Can't wait to hug you at BlogHer either 🙂
Hugs,
Liz
Hi Patty,
He's an excellent Principal and the Vice-Principal was more than fair when dealing with my son over an altercation earlier in the year. And I am in no way attacking their abilities as school administrators. However, this whole "banning" thing is on my last nerve and frankly you're right…in this case, they are dancing around the real issue. It's just silly.
Can't wait to hug you at BlogHer either 🙂
Hugs,
Liz
Hi Patty,
He's an excellent Principal and the Vice-Principal was more than fair when dealing with my son over an altercation earlier in the year. And I am in no way attacking their abilities as school administrators. However, this whole "banning" thing is on my last nerve and frankly you're right…in this case, they are dancing around the real issue. It's just silly.
Can't wait to hug you at BlogHer either 🙂
Hugs,
Liz
Hi Patty,
He's an excellent Principal and the Vice-Principal was more than fair when dealing with my son over an altercation earlier in the year. And I am in no way attacking their abilities as school administrators. However, this whole "banning" thing is on my last nerve and frankly you're right…in this case, they are dancing around the real issue. It's just silly.
Can't wait to hug you at BlogHer either 🙂
Hugs,
Liz
Hi Patty,
He's an excellent Principal and the Vice-Principal was more than fair when dealing with my son over an altercation earlier in the year. And I am in no way attacking their abilities as school administrators. However, this whole "banning" thing is on my last nerve and frankly you're right…in this case, they are dancing around the real issue. It's just silly.
Can't wait to hug you at BlogHer either 🙂
Hugs,
Liz
Hi Patty,
He's an excellent Principal and the Vice-Principal was more than fair when dealing with my son over an altercation earlier in the year. And I am in no way attacking their abilities as school administrators. However, this whole "banning" thing is on my last nerve and frankly you're right…in this case, they are dancing around the real issue. It's just silly.
Can't wait to hug you at BlogHer either 🙂
Hugs,
Liz
Hi Patty,
He's an excellent Principal and the Vice-Principal was more than fair when dealing with my son over an altercation earlier in the year. And I am in no way attacking their abilities as school administrators. However, this whole "banning" thing is on my last nerve and frankly you're right…in this case, they are dancing around the real issue. It's just silly.
Can't wait to hug you at BlogHer either 🙂
Hugs,
Liz
What it boils down to is that the society we live in is
1. litigious
2. hypersensitive to issues regarding rape and abuse
It’s unfortunate that we can’t just go back to the way it used to be, whereby teachers and administrators correct those who are “going too far”, and whereby kids actually FOLLOW decency rules (rules that aren’t stripping away EVERY SINGLE THING). This drives me crazy, and I agree with you 100%.
I need a hug.
What it boils down to is that the society we live in is
1. litigious
2. hypersensitive to issues regarding rape and abuse
It’s unfortunate that we can’t just go back to the way it used to be, whereby teachers and administrators correct those who are “going too far”, and whereby kids actually FOLLOW decency rules (rules that aren’t stripping away EVERY SINGLE THING). This drives me crazy, and I agree with you 100%.
I need a hug.
What it boils down to is that the society we live in is
1. litigious
2. hypersensitive to issues regarding rape and abuse
It’s unfortunate that we can’t just go back to the way it used to be, whereby teachers and administrators correct those who are “going too far”, and whereby kids actually FOLLOW decency rules (rules that aren’t stripping away EVERY SINGLE THING). This drives me crazy, and I agree with you 100%.
I need a hug.
What it boils down to is that the society we live in is
1. litigious
2. hypersensitive to issues regarding rape and abuse
It’s unfortunate that we can’t just go back to the way it used to be, whereby teachers and administrators correct those who are “going too far”, and whereby kids actually FOLLOW decency rules (rules that aren’t stripping away EVERY SINGLE THING). This drives me crazy, and I agree with you 100%.
I need a hug.
What it boils down to is that the society we live in is
1. litigious
2. hypersensitive to issues regarding rape and abuse
It’s unfortunate that we can’t just go back to the way it used to be, whereby teachers and administrators correct those who are “going too far”, and whereby kids actually FOLLOW decency rules (rules that aren’t stripping away EVERY SINGLE THING). This drives me crazy, and I agree with you 100%.
I need a hug.
What it boils down to is that the society we live in is
1. litigious
2. hypersensitive to issues regarding rape and abuse
It’s unfortunate that we can’t just go back to the way it used to be, whereby teachers and administrators correct those who are “going too far”, and whereby kids actually FOLLOW decency rules (rules that aren’t stripping away EVERY SINGLE THING). This drives me crazy, and I agree with you 100%.
I need a hug.
What it boils down to is that the society we live in is
1. litigious
2. hypersensitive to issues regarding rape and abuse
It’s unfortunate that we can’t just go back to the way it used to be, whereby teachers and administrators correct those who are “going too far”, and whereby kids actually FOLLOW decency rules (rules that aren’t stripping away EVERY SINGLE THING). This drives me crazy, and I agree with you 100%.
I need a hug.
What it boils down to is that the society we live in is
1. litigious
2. hypersensitive to issues regarding rape and abuse
It’s unfortunate that we can’t just go back to the way it used to be, whereby teachers and administrators correct those who are “going too far”, and whereby kids actually FOLLOW decency rules (rules that aren’t stripping away EVERY SINGLE THING). This drives me crazy, and I agree with you 100%.
I need a hug.
my family is full of huggers, and I hug friends, family, some co-workers – ALL THE TIME. this is ridiculous.
my family is full of huggers, and I hug friends, family, some co-workers – ALL THE TIME. this is ridiculous.
my family is full of huggers, and I hug friends, family, some co-workers – ALL THE TIME. this is ridiculous.
my family is full of huggers, and I hug friends, family, some co-workers – ALL THE TIME. this is ridiculous.
my family is full of huggers, and I hug friends, family, some co-workers – ALL THE TIME. this is ridiculous.
my family is full of huggers, and I hug friends, family, some co-workers – ALL THE TIME. this is ridiculous.
my family is full of huggers, and I hug friends, family, some co-workers – ALL THE TIME. this is ridiculous.
my family is full of huggers, and I hug friends, family, some co-workers – ALL THE TIME. this is ridiculous.
P.S. WHY do tween/teen boys always answer “maybe” or “I dunno, I’ll check” when we ask them if they have homework??? Grr.
P.S. WHY do tween/teen boys always answer “maybe” or “I dunno, I’ll check” when we ask them if they have homework??? Grr.
P.S. WHY do tween/teen boys always answer “maybe” or “I dunno, I’ll check” when we ask them if they have homework??? Grr.
P.S. WHY do tween/teen boys always answer “maybe” or “I dunno, I’ll check” when we ask them if they have homework??? Grr.
P.S. WHY do tween/teen boys always answer “maybe” or “I dunno, I’ll check” when we ask them if they have homework??? Grr.
P.S. WHY do tween/teen boys always answer “maybe” or “I dunno, I’ll check” when we ask them if they have homework??? Grr.
P.S. WHY do tween/teen boys always answer “maybe” or “I dunno, I’ll check” when we ask them if they have homework??? Grr.
P.S. WHY do tween/teen boys always answer “maybe” or “I dunno, I’ll check” when we ask them if they have homework??? Grr.
Hey Melisa,
EXACTLY! In their defense: I agree with their response of education is first priority. My response: So, help us educate our children on proper social behavior.
Hugs,
Liz
Hey Melisa,
EXACTLY! In their defense: I agree with their response of education is first priority. My response: So, help us educate our children on proper social behavior.
Hugs,
Liz
Hey Melisa,
EXACTLY! In their defense: I agree with their response of education is first priority. My response: So, help us educate our children on proper social behavior.
Hugs,
Liz
Hey Melisa,
EXACTLY! In their defense: I agree with their response of education is first priority. My response: So, help us educate our children on proper social behavior.
Hugs,
Liz
Hey Melisa,
EXACTLY! In their defense: I agree with their response of education is first priority. My response: So, help us educate our children on proper social behavior.
Hugs,
Liz
Hey Melisa,
EXACTLY! In their defense: I agree with their response of education is first priority. My response: So, help us educate our children on proper social behavior.
Hugs,
Liz
Hey Melisa,
EXACTLY! In their defense: I agree with their response of education is first priority. My response: So, help us educate our children on proper social behavior.
Hugs,
Liz
Hey Melisa,
EXACTLY! In their defense: I agree with their response of education is first priority. My response: So, help us educate our children on proper social behavior.
Hugs,
Liz
I am, to be perfectly honest, more prone to confrontation than you. So, it should come as no surprise, when my daughter’s school attempted to institute such a ban, I was once again at the next school meeting with something to say.
We are huggers by nature, and my daughter even more so than most. Her friends are very similar. They all give each other a hug when saying hello. And now, they risk a suspension if they forget that they can’t do it in school, well that is simply unacceptable.
And I am sorry, this is nothing more than laziness on the part of the administration. Because, if you can’t differentiate between two kids hugging hello, and something inappropriate, then “YOU” have serious issues, and there is no reason my daughter should have to suffer or be forced to change her nature as a result of *YOU* having unresolved problems. If there is something wrong… deal with that and that alone.
Any time there is a “zero tolerance” policy (yes even for “weapons in schools”, where you need to be able to differenetiate between a switch blade and a swiss utility knife carried by a cub scout http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/12/education/12discipline.html ) it inevitably is wrong because it will hook as many innocents as it will perpetrators. For example, my friend’s son is one who is often picked on. The other kids will flick his ears, or take his baseball cap (which he always wears) off and toss it. On the bus one day, a kid is flicking his ears once again, and he turns around and yells, “Stop It, Just stay the hell away from me.” And gets suspended for “bullying” because he was “yelling at another student.”
If the administrators, and I am sure they are nice people otherwise, cannot maintain order without blanket rules that are blindly followed without regard for circumstance, well then it is probably time for them to step aside.
I am, to be perfectly honest, more prone to confrontation than you. So, it should come as no surprise, when my daughter’s school attempted to institute such a ban, I was once again at the next school meeting with something to say.
We are huggers by nature, and my daughter even more so than most. Her friends are very similar. They all give each other a hug when saying hello. And now, they risk a suspension if they forget that they can’t do it in school, well that is simply unacceptable.
And I am sorry, this is nothing more than laziness on the part of the administration. Because, if you can’t differentiate between two kids hugging hello, and something inappropriate, then “YOU” have serious issues, and there is no reason my daughter should have to suffer or be forced to change her nature as a result of *YOU* having unresolved problems. If there is something wrong… deal with that and that alone.
Any time there is a “zero tolerance” policy (yes even for “weapons in schools”, where you need to be able to differenetiate between a switch blade and a swiss utility knife carried by a cub scout http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/12/education/12discipline.html ) it inevitably is wrong because it will hook as many innocents as it will perpetrators. For example, my friend’s son is one who is often picked on. The other kids will flick his ears, or take his baseball cap (which he always wears) off and toss it. On the bus one day, a kid is flicking his ears once again, and he turns around and yells, “Stop It, Just stay the hell away from me.” And gets suspended for “bullying” because he was “yelling at another student.”
If the administrators, and I am sure they are nice people otherwise, cannot maintain order without blanket rules that are blindly followed without regard for circumstance, well then it is probably time for them to step aside.
I am, to be perfectly honest, more prone to confrontation than you. So, it should come as no surprise, when my daughter’s school attempted to institute such a ban, I was once again at the next school meeting with something to say.
We are huggers by nature, and my daughter even more so than most. Her friends are very similar. They all give each other a hug when saying hello. And now, they risk a suspension if they forget that they can’t do it in school, well that is simply unacceptable.
And I am sorry, this is nothing more than laziness on the part of the administration. Because, if you can’t differentiate between two kids hugging hello, and something inappropriate, then “YOU” have serious issues, and there is no reason my daughter should have to suffer or be forced to change her nature as a result of *YOU* having unresolved problems. If there is something wrong… deal with that and that alone.
Any time there is a “zero tolerance” policy (yes even for “weapons in schools”, where you need to be able to differenetiate between a switch blade and a swiss utility knife carried by a cub scout http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/12/education/12discipline.html ) it inevitably is wrong because it will hook as many innocents as it will perpetrators. For example, my friend’s son is one who is often picked on. The other kids will flick his ears, or take his baseball cap (which he always wears) off and toss it. On the bus one day, a kid is flicking his ears once again, and he turns around and yells, “Stop It, Just stay the hell away from me.” And gets suspended for “bullying” because he was “yelling at another student.”
If the administrators, and I am sure they are nice people otherwise, cannot maintain order without blanket rules that are blindly followed without regard for circumstance, well then it is probably time for them to step aside.
I am, to be perfectly honest, more prone to confrontation than you. So, it should come as no surprise, when my daughter’s school attempted to institute such a ban, I was once again at the next school meeting with something to say.
We are huggers by nature, and my daughter even more so than most. Her friends are very similar. They all give each other a hug when saying hello. And now, they risk a suspension if they forget that they can’t do it in school, well that is simply unacceptable.
And I am sorry, this is nothing more than laziness on the part of the administration. Because, if you can’t differentiate between two kids hugging hello, and something inappropriate, then “YOU” have serious issues, and there is no reason my daughter should have to suffer or be forced to change her nature as a result of *YOU* having unresolved problems. If there is something wrong… deal with that and that alone.
Any time there is a “zero tolerance” policy (yes even for “weapons in schools”, where you need to be able to differenetiate between a switch blade and a swiss utility knife carried by a cub scout http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/12/education/12discipline.html ) it inevitably is wrong because it will hook as many innocents as it will perpetrators. For example, my friend’s son is one who is often picked on. The other kids will flick his ears, or take his baseball cap (which he always wears) off and toss it. On the bus one day, a kid is flicking his ears once again, and he turns around and yells, “Stop It, Just stay the hell away from me.” And gets suspended for “bullying” because he was “yelling at another student.”
If the administrators, and I am sure they are nice people otherwise, cannot maintain order without blanket rules that are blindly followed without regard for circumstance, well then it is probably time for them to step aside.
I am, to be perfectly honest, more prone to confrontation than you. So, it should come as no surprise, when my daughter’s school attempted to institute such a ban, I was once again at the next school meeting with something to say.
We are huggers by nature, and my daughter even more so than most. Her friends are very similar. They all give each other a hug when saying hello. And now, they risk a suspension if they forget that they can’t do it in school, well that is simply unacceptable.
And I am sorry, this is nothing more than laziness on the part of the administration. Because, if you can’t differentiate between two kids hugging hello, and something inappropriate, then “YOU” have serious issues, and there is no reason my daughter should have to suffer or be forced to change her nature as a result of *YOU* having unresolved problems. If there is something wrong… deal with that and that alone.
Any time there is a “zero tolerance” policy (yes even for “weapons in schools”, where you need to be able to differenetiate between a switch blade and a swiss utility knife carried by a cub scout http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/12/education/12discipline.html ) it inevitably is wrong because it will hook as many innocents as it will perpetrators. For example, my friend’s son is one who is often picked on. The other kids will flick his ears, or take his baseball cap (which he always wears) off and toss it. On the bus one day, a kid is flicking his ears once again, and he turns around and yells, “Stop It, Just stay the hell away from me.” And gets suspended for “bullying” because he was “yelling at another student.”
If the administrators, and I am sure they are nice people otherwise, cannot maintain order without blanket rules that are blindly followed without regard for circumstance, well then it is probably time for them to step aside.
I am, to be perfectly honest, more prone to confrontation than you. So, it should come as no surprise, when my daughter’s school attempted to institute such a ban, I was once again at the next school meeting with something to say.
We are huggers by nature, and my daughter even more so than most. Her friends are very similar. They all give each other a hug when saying hello. And now, they risk a suspension if they forget that they can’t do it in school, well that is simply unacceptable.
And I am sorry, this is nothing more than laziness on the part of the administration. Because, if you can’t differentiate between two kids hugging hello, and something inappropriate, then “YOU” have serious issues, and there is no reason my daughter should have to suffer or be forced to change her nature as a result of *YOU* having unresolved problems. If there is something wrong… deal with that and that alone.
Any time there is a “zero tolerance” policy (yes even for “weapons in schools”, where you need to be able to differenetiate between a switch blade and a swiss utility knife carried by a cub scout http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/12/education/12discipline.html ) it inevitably is wrong because it will hook as many innocents as it will perpetrators. For example, my friend’s son is one who is often picked on. The other kids will flick his ears, or take his baseball cap (which he always wears) off and toss it. On the bus one day, a kid is flicking his ears once again, and he turns around and yells, “Stop It, Just stay the hell away from me.” And gets suspended for “bullying” because he was “yelling at another student.”
If the administrators, and I am sure they are nice people otherwise, cannot maintain order without blanket rules that are blindly followed without regard for circumstance, well then it is probably time for them to step aside.
I am, to be perfectly honest, more prone to confrontation than you. So, it should come as no surprise, when my daughter’s school attempted to institute such a ban, I was once again at the next school meeting with something to say.
We are huggers by nature, and my daughter even more so than most. Her friends are very similar. They all give each other a hug when saying hello. And now, they risk a suspension if they forget that they can’t do it in school, well that is simply unacceptable.
And I am sorry, this is nothing more than laziness on the part of the administration. Because, if you can’t differentiate between two kids hugging hello, and something inappropriate, then “YOU” have serious issues, and there is no reason my daughter should have to suffer or be forced to change her nature as a result of *YOU* having unresolved problems. If there is something wrong… deal with that and that alone.
Any time there is a “zero tolerance” policy (yes even for “weapons in schools”, where you need to be able to differenetiate between a switch blade and a swiss utility knife carried by a cub scout http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/12/education/12discipline.html ) it inevitably is wrong because it will hook as many innocents as it will perpetrators. For example, my friend’s son is one who is often picked on. The other kids will flick his ears, or take his baseball cap (which he always wears) off and toss it. On the bus one day, a kid is flicking his ears once again, and he turns around and yells, “Stop It, Just stay the hell away from me.” And gets suspended for “bullying” because he was “yelling at another student.”
If the administrators, and I am sure they are nice people otherwise, cannot maintain order without blanket rules that are blindly followed without regard for circumstance, well then it is probably time for them to step aside.
I am, to be perfectly honest, more prone to confrontation than you. So, it should come as no surprise, when my daughter’s school attempted to institute such a ban, I was once again at the next school meeting with something to say.
We are huggers by nature, and my daughter even more so than most. Her friends are very similar. They all give each other a hug when saying hello. And now, they risk a suspension if they forget that they can’t do it in school, well that is simply unacceptable.
And I am sorry, this is nothing more than laziness on the part of the administration. Because, if you can’t differentiate between two kids hugging hello, and something inappropriate, then “YOU” have serious issues, and there is no reason my daughter should have to suffer or be forced to change her nature as a result of *YOU* having unresolved problems. If there is something wrong… deal with that and that alone.
Any time there is a “zero tolerance” policy (yes even for “weapons in schools”, where you need to be able to differenetiate between a switch blade and a swiss utility knife carried by a cub scout http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/12/education/12discipline.html ) it inevitably is wrong because it will hook as many innocents as it will perpetrators. For example, my friend’s son is one who is often picked on. The other kids will flick his ears, or take his baseball cap (which he always wears) off and toss it. On the bus one day, a kid is flicking his ears once again, and he turns around and yells, “Stop It, Just stay the hell away from me.” And gets suspended for “bullying” because he was “yelling at another student.”
If the administrators, and I am sure they are nice people otherwise, cannot maintain order without blanket rules that are blindly followed without regard for circumstance, well then it is probably time for them to step aside.
Student Suspended for Hugging friend
http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2011/11/student-suspended-for-breaking-schools-no-hugging-policy/
Boy with Down syndrome, 14, suspended and accused of sex harassment after hugging school bus aide
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2076388/Down-syndrome-boy-14-suspended-hugging-school-bus-aide.html
Teacher suspended after throwing bucket of water over hugging kids
http://www.parentdish.co.uk/2012/03/13/teacher-suspended-after-throwing-bucket-of-water-over-hugging-kids/
Student Suspended for Hugging friend
http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2011/11/student-suspended-for-breaking-schools-no-hugging-policy/
Boy with Down syndrome, 14, suspended and accused of sex harassment after hugging school bus aide
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2076388/Down-syndrome-boy-14-suspended-hugging-school-bus-aide.html
Teacher suspended after throwing bucket of water over hugging kids
http://www.parentdish.co.uk/2012/03/13/teacher-suspended-after-throwing-bucket-of-water-over-hugging-kids/
Student Suspended for Hugging friend
http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2011/11/student-suspended-for-breaking-schools-no-hugging-policy/
Boy with Down syndrome, 14, suspended and accused of sex harassment after hugging school bus aide
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2076388/Down-syndrome-boy-14-suspended-hugging-school-bus-aide.html
Teacher suspended after throwing bucket of water over hugging kids
http://www.parentdish.co.uk/2012/03/13/teacher-suspended-after-throwing-bucket-of-water-over-hugging-kids/
Student Suspended for Hugging friend
http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2011/11/student-suspended-for-breaking-schools-no-hugging-policy/
Boy with Down syndrome, 14, suspended and accused of sex harassment after hugging school bus aide
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2076388/Down-syndrome-boy-14-suspended-hugging-school-bus-aide.html
Teacher suspended after throwing bucket of water over hugging kids
http://www.parentdish.co.uk/2012/03/13/teacher-suspended-after-throwing-bucket-of-water-over-hugging-kids/
Student Suspended for Hugging friend
http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2011/11/student-suspended-for-breaking-schools-no-hugging-policy/
Boy with Down syndrome, 14, suspended and accused of sex harassment after hugging school bus aide
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2076388/Down-syndrome-boy-14-suspended-hugging-school-bus-aide.html
Teacher suspended after throwing bucket of water over hugging kids
http://www.parentdish.co.uk/2012/03/13/teacher-suspended-after-throwing-bucket-of-water-over-hugging-kids/
Student Suspended for Hugging friend
http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2011/11/student-suspended-for-breaking-schools-no-hugging-policy/
Boy with Down syndrome, 14, suspended and accused of sex harassment after hugging school bus aide
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2076388/Down-syndrome-boy-14-suspended-hugging-school-bus-aide.html
Teacher suspended after throwing bucket of water over hugging kids
http://www.parentdish.co.uk/2012/03/13/teacher-suspended-after-throwing-bucket-of-water-over-hugging-kids/
Student Suspended for Hugging friend
http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2011/11/student-suspended-for-breaking-schools-no-hugging-policy/
Boy with Down syndrome, 14, suspended and accused of sex harassment after hugging school bus aide
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2076388/Down-syndrome-boy-14-suspended-hugging-school-bus-aide.html
Teacher suspended after throwing bucket of water over hugging kids
http://www.parentdish.co.uk/2012/03/13/teacher-suspended-after-throwing-bucket-of-water-over-hugging-kids/
Student Suspended for Hugging friend
http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2011/11/student-suspended-for-breaking-schools-no-hugging-policy/
Boy with Down syndrome, 14, suspended and accused of sex harassment after hugging school bus aide
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2076388/Down-syndrome-boy-14-suspended-hugging-school-bus-aide.html
Teacher suspended after throwing bucket of water over hugging kids
http://www.parentdish.co.uk/2012/03/13/teacher-suspended-after-throwing-bucket-of-water-over-hugging-kids/
Hey JayMonster,
I am very sorry to hear about your friend's boy. That is exactly the sort of stuff that will get a kid thinking, "Why even bother," right? So sad. In this case, the administrators insist that huggers will not be suspended and that parents are blowing the "zero tolerance for hugging" way out of proportion. Maybe so. But, it didn't stop our school from getting bad press. Parents showing up hugging each other. Kids mugging for the cameras and totally missing the point. Makes our community look totally ridiculous, actually.
Hugs,
Liz
Hey JayMonster,
I am very sorry to hear about your friend's boy. That is exactly the sort of stuff that will get a kid thinking, "Why even bother," right? So sad. In this case, the administrators insist that huggers will not be suspended and that parents are blowing the "zero tolerance for hugging" way out of proportion. Maybe so. But, it didn't stop our school from getting bad press. Parents showing up hugging each other. Kids mugging for the cameras and totally missing the point. Makes our community look totally ridiculous, actually.
Hugs,
Liz
Hey JayMonster,
I am very sorry to hear about your friend's boy. That is exactly the sort of stuff that will get a kid thinking, "Why even bother," right? So sad. In this case, the administrators insist that huggers will not be suspended and that parents are blowing the "zero tolerance for hugging" way out of proportion. Maybe so. But, it didn't stop our school from getting bad press. Parents showing up hugging each other. Kids mugging for the cameras and totally missing the point. Makes our community look totally ridiculous, actually.
Hugs,
Liz
Hey JayMonster,
I am very sorry to hear about your friend's boy. That is exactly the sort of stuff that will get a kid thinking, "Why even bother," right? So sad. In this case, the administrators insist that huggers will not be suspended and that parents are blowing the "zero tolerance for hugging" way out of proportion. Maybe so. But, it didn't stop our school from getting bad press. Parents showing up hugging each other. Kids mugging for the cameras and totally missing the point. Makes our community look totally ridiculous, actually.
Hugs,
Liz
Hey JayMonster,
I am very sorry to hear about your friend's boy. That is exactly the sort of stuff that will get a kid thinking, "Why even bother," right? So sad. In this case, the administrators insist that huggers will not be suspended and that parents are blowing the "zero tolerance for hugging" way out of proportion. Maybe so. But, it didn't stop our school from getting bad press. Parents showing up hugging each other. Kids mugging for the cameras and totally missing the point. Makes our community look totally ridiculous, actually.
Hugs,
Liz
Hey JayMonster,
I am very sorry to hear about your friend's boy. That is exactly the sort of stuff that will get a kid thinking, "Why even bother," right? So sad. In this case, the administrators insist that huggers will not be suspended and that parents are blowing the "zero tolerance for hugging" way out of proportion. Maybe so. But, it didn't stop our school from getting bad press. Parents showing up hugging each other. Kids mugging for the cameras and totally missing the point. Makes our community look totally ridiculous, actually.
Hugs,
Liz
Hey JayMonster,
I am very sorry to hear about your friend's boy. That is exactly the sort of stuff that will get a kid thinking, "Why even bother," right? So sad. In this case, the administrators insist that huggers will not be suspended and that parents are blowing the "zero tolerance for hugging" way out of proportion. Maybe so. But, it didn't stop our school from getting bad press. Parents showing up hugging each other. Kids mugging for the cameras and totally missing the point. Makes our community look totally ridiculous, actually.
Hugs,
Liz
Hey JayMonster,
I am very sorry to hear about your friend's boy. That is exactly the sort of stuff that will get a kid thinking, "Why even bother," right? So sad. In this case, the administrators insist that huggers will not be suspended and that parents are blowing the "zero tolerance for hugging" way out of proportion. Maybe so. But, it didn't stop our school from getting bad press. Parents showing up hugging each other. Kids mugging for the cameras and totally missing the point. Makes our community look totally ridiculous, actually.
Hugs,
Liz
After seeing the story about the school in the Washington Post, this now makes even less sense to me. As you point out, the Principal insists that kids will not be suspended for hugging, despite the “zero tolerance policy” on it. Well, then is it, or isn’t it a zero tolerance policy?
I was one of those “hugging parents” at our daughter’s school when they tried that here.
And regardless of how ridiculous you may think your community looks, all one has to do is stop and think… “Oh, that is where Liz lives… it can’t be all bad.” 🙂
After seeing the story about the school in the Washington Post, this now makes even less sense to me. As you point out, the Principal insists that kids will not be suspended for hugging, despite the “zero tolerance policy” on it. Well, then is it, or isn’t it a zero tolerance policy?
I was one of those “hugging parents” at our daughter’s school when they tried that here.
And regardless of how ridiculous you may think your community looks, all one has to do is stop and think… “Oh, that is where Liz lives… it can’t be all bad.” 🙂
After seeing the story about the school in the Washington Post, this now makes even less sense to me. As you point out, the Principal insists that kids will not be suspended for hugging, despite the “zero tolerance policy” on it. Well, then is it, or isn’t it a zero tolerance policy?
I was one of those “hugging parents” at our daughter’s school when they tried that here.
And regardless of how ridiculous you may think your community looks, all one has to do is stop and think… “Oh, that is where Liz lives… it can’t be all bad.” 🙂
After seeing the story about the school in the Washington Post, this now makes even less sense to me. As you point out, the Principal insists that kids will not be suspended for hugging, despite the “zero tolerance policy” on it. Well, then is it, or isn’t it a zero tolerance policy?
I was one of those “hugging parents” at our daughter’s school when they tried that here.
And regardless of how ridiculous you may think your community looks, all one has to do is stop and think… “Oh, that is where Liz lives… it can’t be all bad.” 🙂
After seeing the story about the school in the Washington Post, this now makes even less sense to me. As you point out, the Principal insists that kids will not be suspended for hugging, despite the “zero tolerance policy” on it. Well, then is it, or isn’t it a zero tolerance policy?
I was one of those “hugging parents” at our daughter’s school when they tried that here.
And regardless of how ridiculous you may think your community looks, all one has to do is stop and think… “Oh, that is where Liz lives… it can’t be all bad.” 🙂
After seeing the story about the school in the Washington Post, this now makes even less sense to me. As you point out, the Principal insists that kids will not be suspended for hugging, despite the “zero tolerance policy” on it. Well, then is it, or isn’t it a zero tolerance policy?
I was one of those “hugging parents” at our daughter’s school when they tried that here.
And regardless of how ridiculous you may think your community looks, all one has to do is stop and think… “Oh, that is where Liz lives… it can’t be all bad.” 🙂
After seeing the story about the school in the Washington Post, this now makes even less sense to me. As you point out, the Principal insists that kids will not be suspended for hugging, despite the “zero tolerance policy” on it. Well, then is it, or isn’t it a zero tolerance policy?
I was one of those “hugging parents” at our daughter’s school when they tried that here.
And regardless of how ridiculous you may think your community looks, all one has to do is stop and think… “Oh, that is where Liz lives… it can’t be all bad.” 🙂
After seeing the story about the school in the Washington Post, this now makes even less sense to me. As you point out, the Principal insists that kids will not be suspended for hugging, despite the “zero tolerance policy” on it. Well, then is it, or isn’t it a zero tolerance policy?
I was one of those “hugging parents” at our daughter’s school when they tried that here.
And regardless of how ridiculous you may think your community looks, all one has to do is stop and think… “Oh, that is where Liz lives… it can’t be all bad.” 🙂
I think that is a stupid rule. I picked up Dawson from school the other day and one of the girls in his classed hugged him goodbye. It was completely innocent. I mean they’re in first grade for goodness sake. I teach my boys to hug each other because it is how we show we care about each other. If I had to tell him he can’t hug his friend because the school thinks it’s wrong, I wouldn’t know where to begin.
I think that is a stupid rule. I picked up Dawson from school the other day and one of the girls in his classed hugged him goodbye. It was completely innocent. I mean they’re in first grade for goodness sake. I teach my boys to hug each other because it is how we show we care about each other. If I had to tell him he can’t hug his friend because the school thinks it’s wrong, I wouldn’t know where to begin.
I think that is a stupid rule. I picked up Dawson from school the other day and one of the girls in his classed hugged him goodbye. It was completely innocent. I mean they’re in first grade for goodness sake. I teach my boys to hug each other because it is how we show we care about each other. If I had to tell him he can’t hug his friend because the school thinks it’s wrong, I wouldn’t know where to begin.
I think that is a stupid rule. I picked up Dawson from school the other day and one of the girls in his classed hugged him goodbye. It was completely innocent. I mean they’re in first grade for goodness sake. I teach my boys to hug each other because it is how we show we care about each other. If I had to tell him he can’t hug his friend because the school thinks it’s wrong, I wouldn’t know where to begin.
I think that is a stupid rule. I picked up Dawson from school the other day and one of the girls in his classed hugged him goodbye. It was completely innocent. I mean they’re in first grade for goodness sake. I teach my boys to hug each other because it is how we show we care about each other. If I had to tell him he can’t hug his friend because the school thinks it’s wrong, I wouldn’t know where to begin.
I think that is a stupid rule. I picked up Dawson from school the other day and one of the girls in his classed hugged him goodbye. It was completely innocent. I mean they’re in first grade for goodness sake. I teach my boys to hug each other because it is how we show we care about each other. If I had to tell him he can’t hug his friend because the school thinks it’s wrong, I wouldn’t know where to begin.
I think that is a stupid rule. I picked up Dawson from school the other day and one of the girls in his classed hugged him goodbye. It was completely innocent. I mean they’re in first grade for goodness sake. I teach my boys to hug each other because it is how we show we care about each other. If I had to tell him he can’t hug his friend because the school thinks it’s wrong, I wouldn’t know where to begin.
I think that is a stupid rule. I picked up Dawson from school the other day and one of the girls in his classed hugged him goodbye. It was completely innocent. I mean they’re in first grade for goodness sake. I teach my boys to hug each other because it is how we show we care about each other. If I had to tell him he can’t hug his friend because the school thinks it’s wrong, I wouldn’t know where to begin.
I’ll hug you any time, Liz 🙂
I’ll hug you any time, Liz 🙂
I’ll hug you any time, Liz 🙂
I’ll hug you any time, Liz 🙂
I’ll hug you any time, Liz 🙂
I’ll hug you any time, Liz 🙂
I’ll hug you any time, Liz 🙂
I’ll hug you any time, Liz 🙂
I’m with JayMonster. These zero tolerance policies are utter ridiculousness, and just plain lazy.
And? How did I miss this? Gah!
I’m with JayMonster. These zero tolerance policies are utter ridiculousness, and just plain lazy.
And? How did I miss this? Gah!
I’m with JayMonster. These zero tolerance policies are utter ridiculousness, and just plain lazy.
And? How did I miss this? Gah!
I’m with JayMonster. These zero tolerance policies are utter ridiculousness, and just plain lazy.
And? How did I miss this? Gah!
I’m with JayMonster. These zero tolerance policies are utter ridiculousness, and just plain lazy.
And? How did I miss this? Gah!
I’m with JayMonster. These zero tolerance policies are utter ridiculousness, and just plain lazy.
And? How did I miss this? Gah!
I’m with JayMonster. These zero tolerance policies are utter ridiculousness, and just plain lazy.
And? How did I miss this? Gah!
I’m with JayMonster. These zero tolerance policies are utter ridiculousness, and just plain lazy.
And? How did I miss this? Gah!