H9: Hamilton Hugs

Our goal in MacChangers was to provide an innovative solution towards children development by proposing an interactive idea that is not only tangible but easy to execute during this time and age. We wanted to decrease the need for technological requirements by being able to promote physical interaction between children. We believe that one of the many things this generation lacks is increased physical exposure towards other children. Hamilton Hugs is a biweekly program that is run after school in which children are paired with volunteers that facilitate socially inclusive activities. These activities contribute toward the social development of the children by proposing creative ways to introduce engagement social interactions within themselves. By partnering with the City of Hamilton, schools will assist in pairing children with suitable volunteers and provide adequate resources to their development. Hamilton Hugs targets the societal issue where children do not get enough physical interaction with children their age due to advances in technology creating more comfortable and accessible virtual environments that implement fitting situations.

How might we foster a socially inclusive environment to support children’s (ages 5-10) emotional and social development to hinder adverse mental health consequences from prolonged isolation.

How might we foster a socially inclusive environment to support children’s (ages 5-10) emotional and social development to hinder adverse mental health consequences from prolonged isolation?

A biweekly program run after school in which children are paired with volunteers that socially inclusive activities. This includes relaxation techniques, strategies to address social anxiety, and games to improve interpersonal skills. By partnering with the City of Hamilton, schools will assist in pairing children with volunteers and provide adequate resources.