How to Hug a Pufferfish by Ellie Peterson

Short Summary

“How to Hug a Pufferfish” by Ellie Peterson is a children’s book that teaches the importance of consent and understanding body language through a charming story about asking permission before giving a hug.

Age Group

Suitable for children aged 3 to 5 years of age.

Topics Discussed

Consent

Note: Sex Ed Rescue is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. See our disclosure for more information.

Buy a Copy

You can buy a copy of How to Hug a Pufferfish by Ellie Peterson from Amazon.

blank

What this book is about

  • “How to Hug a Pufferfish” by Ellie Peterson is a children’s book about consent and asking for permission before hugging.
  • The book has significant educational value for teaching children about consent.
  • The book uses the character of a pufferfish to illustrate the concept of body language in consent.
  • It highlights the importance of understanding others’ body language and respecting their comfort levels.
  • The narrative includes scenarios where a pufferfish might or might not want a hug, emphasising the need for the right conditions.
  • Alternatives to hugging, like a high five or a handshake, are suggested, showing diverse ways to express affection.
  • The book is appreciated for its humour, which adds entertainment value while conveying important messages.
  • Many consent books often combine multiple concepts, but this book focuses specifically on asking for a hug.
blank

Find practical tools to educate kids about sex education in the Sex Ed Shop

I hope you find this book review helpful!

Happy talking!
❤️ Cath

Not sure what to teach about sex ed at this age?

This printable checklist shows you the priority topics for this age, simple scripts to try, reassurance for common worries, and the next step to take.

I’ll send you the checklist plus helpful emails about teaching sex ed. Unsubscribe anytime. Privacy Policy 
blank

Cath Hakanson is a qualified family sex educator, sexual health nurse and author with 30+ years of clinical and education experience. As an AuDHD parent of two neurodivergent children, she creates clear, practical sex ed resources that help parents talk about bodies, puberty, consent, porn, relationships and sex without shame or judgement.