From a very early age some children stiffen their bodies and cry when you hold them. These usually grow up to be children who avoid physical contact – who turn away if you try to kiss them, for example, and make no physical advances themselves. Such children may never enjoy physical affection comfortably, and a parent may find this hard to cope with because it seems like rejection. If your child behaves in this way, don’t insist on cuddles that she clearly does not want. Give your physical affection only when she shows you that she wants it, and respect her wishes.