Greeting without kisses or hugs: Álvaro Bilbao's alternatives 2026

Although greeting is a widespread standard of education, there is no single way to do it. When we think about saying hello, we all think of the effusive kisses and hugs we give to our family and friends, but the truth is that there are people who are reluctant to this type of greeting.

In fact, in the childhood stage it is quite common for children to dislike it and, in light of this, psychologist Álvaro Bilbao is clear: “children should not be forced to kiss strangers or acquaintances either.” It is, as he himself indicates on his Instagram account, one of the maxims of positive education: there is no need to impose.

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As if this were not enough, it seems that a season has arrived in our lives in which hugs and kisses as a form of greeting will not be among us. The coronavirus, which has claimed so many lives, continues to lurk around and, in response to this, the health authorities have established some safety regulations such as the minimum interpersonal distance. This is two meters and, therefore, makes kisses and hugs as a form of greeting impossible. And, of course, children are included in the standard. But, contrary to what it may seem, this does not mean that we cannot greet in an affectionate way: it can be done even if there is no physical contact involved.

Alternatives to kisses

For this, there are very valid and even more fun alternatives. The psychologist Álvaro Bilbao has shared them on his Instagram account and, in addition to this occasion, they are also perfect for those little ones who have a hard time if they have to greet them with a kiss or a hug:

1. High five! Another of the most widespread 'colleague' greetings throughout the world. Perhaps this alternative seems a bit dangerous to you to control the safety distance, so, in that case, we can choose to high-five the other person. Equally valid, of course.
2. Shaking hands: the most formal greeting we are used to. Although there are different handshakes, perhaps it is not the most advisable for this season when it is better not to touch, so you can choose to shake hands without actually touching. Or, also, by applying a little disinfectant gel after squeezing.
3. Saying 'hello': why does saying 'hello' have to be sharper? We can help the little ones with non-verbal language to make it a greeting as affectionate as any other.
4. Putting fists together: we also add inventing a secret code to do after putting them together.
5. Moving your hand: it is the typical one that goes together with 'hello'. Waving your hand in greeting with a smile on your face brightens anyone's day.
6. Hugging in the distance: one person stands in front of the other and, while exchanging glances, they cross their arms around their body as if they were giving the other the biggest hug. We can add a brief lateral movement to make it even more effusive.
7. Side by side: This is the form of greeting that we have been seeing the most in recent weeks. So much so that even kings carry it out on official visits. A good way to maintain that contact for a few seconds with the assurance that there will be no infections.