Book Review: Don't Hug Doug (He Doesn't Like It)
- Kayelene Kerr Child Safety Expert
- Nov 26, 2024
- 2 min read
Hugs are often seen as a universal sign of affection. They’re encouraged, expected and sometimes even insisted upon, especially for children. But Don’t Hug Doug (He Doesn’t Like It) gently challenges that idea, reminding us that not everyone experiences touch in the same way.
Doug doesn’t like hugs. Not hello hugs, not goodbye hugs, not even celebration hugs. To him, they feel overwhelming and uncomfortable. What the story does so well is normalise this, without judgement or pressure to change. Doug isn’t 'wrong' for not liking hugs, he’s simply different and that difference is respected.
This is where the message becomes so important for children. It introduces the idea that preferences around touch are personal. Some people love hugs. Others prefer a wave, a smile or a high five. None of these are better or worse, they are just different ways of connecting.
For children, this helps build an understanding of consent in a very practical, everyday way. It shows them that before we touch someone, even in a friendly or familiar context, we need to check in. We need to ask and most importantly, we need to listen and respect the answer.
It also gives children permission to recognise their own preferences. A child who doesn’t want a hug is often encouraged to 'just be polite' or 'not hurt feelings'. But moments like these can unintentionally teach children to ignore their own comfort. This book helps shift that narrative, reinforcing that their feelings matter and that it’s okay to say no.
For adults, it’s a gentle but important reminder. Consent isn’t just a concept we talk about in serious situations, it’s built in everyday interactions. It’s in how we greet children, how we model asking for permission and how we respond when a child says no.
Books like this help make those moments visible. They give children the language to express themselves and help adults create environments where those expressions are respected.
Because child safety and respectful relationships don’t start with big conversations. They start with simple, everyday moments, like asking before a hug and listening to the answer.
Don't Hug Doug (He Doesn't Like It)
About Kayelene Kerr & eSafeKids
eSafeKids is a social enterprise founded by Kayelene Kerr. Kayelene is recognised as one of Australia’s most experienced specialist providers of Protective Behaviours, Body Safety, Cyber Safety, Digital Wellness and Pornography Literacy education workshops. Kayelene has featured on Australian and international television broadcasts, radio programs and in print media.
eSafeKids books can support educators teaching protective behaviours and child abuse prevention education that aligns with the Western Australian Curriculum, Australian Curriculum, Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and National Quality Framework: National Quality Standards (NQS).
