Bear Hug (Rear, Underarms) - Children's Self-Defense

This page provides details on techniques that a child can use to escape from a bear hug. However, it is extremely difficult for a child to escape from an adult. Therefore, children must also be taught to scream for help and/or run away from danger.

For additional self-defense techniques, please visit the main Self Defense Techniques for Children section.

Tips & Instructions for Technique

• Scenario - Someone is attempting to grab the child under the arms from behind.
• The child should lean forward in order to unbalance the aggressor.
• The child should always be kicking. It is a child's strongest limb and they should always kick with the heel. The heel kicks can do damage to the thigh, groin, and lower back.