I like to spend my free time at my kids' elementary school. It's a happy place, and they usually need a lot of help, so I'm happy to oblige. A few years ago I noticed that there was always a need for substitute teachers, so I got certified and boom! Now I help out at the school and they pay me! Win /Win.
This winter, I was on a 6 week assignment for a little boy who needed a little extra guidance. Part of my job was waiting for him every morning. He wasn't the most punctual kid.
So, while I was waiting for him to arrive, I was watching all the kids come into school off the buses.
Being the shy person that I am, I was able to greet most kids by name. And, this being an elementary school, most of those kids wanted a hug to say "Hello".
Sure, why the heck not? Mornings are tough on all of us. I know I don't always get a chance to hug my kids as we race out the door. And school is hard. This kids work hard all day. I know, I push them. So why not start the day with a hug. A reminder that you are loved and that you're going to have a great day.
Free Hug Friday was born.
Our School Store is open on Friday, so I sat across from the store and offered my free hugs for anyone that needed them. Clearly, it was a hit from the start.
I had kids lining up for hugs. Kindergarten through 5th grade. And really, 5th graders need hugs too. I have luck hugs too. Kids that get my hugs on Friday mornings do better on spelling tests and book presentations. Teachers need hugs too. Free Hug Friday is for everyone.
When my assignment was up, and I was thinking of sleeping in on Friday, I couldn't do it. Kids in the bus line on Thursday afternoon would remind me that Free Hug Friday was tomorrow. Done.
I'm in it.
Now it's summer. I don't get to see the kids every Friday. But, when I'm in a restaurant and 2 little kids come charging at me for their free hugs I smile and tell their parents about Free Hug Friday.
They usually already know.
I fucking love my job.
