We cuddle babies properly when we
conform their chests against our own, and raise
their scented scalps to meet our lips. They see
a face, they feel a heart; this holding plays
a vital role with infants or the ill.
A frontal hug is used by lovers, too;
what’s first a comfort quick becomes a thrill
and pushes forward you to me to you.

But how to hold a healthy growing child
involves a different method of embrace.
First turn the kid around: be firm and mild;
caress his shoulders as you take your place
behind him. Let him face the world, and speak
your whispered wisdom to him, cheek to cheek.