Bullying; And Your Child

Bully. What does the word make you think of? For some children it’s the girl at school who always makes fun of them. For other’s it’s the biggest child in the colony park who’s always trying to beat them up or take their things. Sometimes “bully” means a whole group of kids, ganging up on someone else. No matter what situation or form it comes in, bullying can make your child feel depressed, hurt and alone.

Tips to handle bullying: For kids

• Ignore the bully. Pretend you don’t hear him. Don’t look at him. Walk right past him if you can.

• Don’t cry, get angry and show that you are upset. That’s the bully’s goal so don’t give him the satisfaction.

• Even if you’re feeling really hurt don’t let it show. You can talk about your feelings later.

• If you can, turn a comment into a joke.

• Turn and walk away. Go to a place where an adult is present.

• Act confident. Hold your head up, stand up straight and make eye contact.

Tips to handle bullying: For parents

• Bullies pick on children who are alone, so encourage your child to make more friends and bring them home so that you also have a chance to know your child’s friends.

• Work out ways with your child to avoid the situations where the bullying occurs. Its better that you don’t become too protective.

• Try a role-play of what has happened, you as the victim, your child as the bully. Show him how to respond calmly and firmly.

• If the bullying includes physical violence, encourage your child to get away rather than hitting back – this may make things worse.

• Constantly work on the self-esteem of your child.

• Show your child how to walk without reacting, time after time – this way the bully might lose interest.

• Support your child by reporting the bullying to other responsible adults. This could be teachers, the school counselor or other parents.