Monday, April 9, 2012

Bullying: No Child is Exempt

1 in 3 children are either a victim or perpetrator of bullying.
  
While this fact is startling, there are steps you can take as a parent to help address this issue.  With parents in the position of authority, they become the hub for bullying interventions - a necessity to stop this behavior before it goes too far.

Bullying can begin in children as young as toddlers. Bullying does not discriminate in age, race, gender or economic status.  While some parents may think “it’s just kids being kids,” it is time for these parents to step up and take action to rally against bullying.

Here are three steps to conquer this problem head on and stop bullying in its tracks:

  1. Learn the signs of bullying.  Most children do not immediately tell their parents they are being bullied; however, there are tell-tale signs to look for.  Many victims will want to avoid recess or school activities in which there is no structured classroom setting.  Children may complain of headaches, stomachaches or have unexplained bruises and cuts.  Other signs include getting to school too early, too late or taking an illogical long route to class.  Trouble sleeping, low self-esteem or depressive behaviors are also potential signs of those being victimized.
  2. Communicate and become involved in your child’s life.  It is important to talk with your child on a daily basis. Research shows that parents are the last to know if their child is being bullied or is the perpetrator.  Ask open ended questions about their social life when you pick up your child from school.  A simple “What did you do at recess?” or “Who did you eat lunch with today?” may be all it takes to find out if your child is a victim of bullying.  Engaging in topics about your child’s peers will make them feel comfortable to come to you with issues if a bullying event arises. 
  3. Be a leader and set a good example for your child. Most bullying is the result of an observation from how you as an adult communicate in your own power relationships.  If your child consistently sees you handle situations poorly with waiters, cashiers or drivers on the road, they are picking up poor ways to communicate.  You should also initiate a conversation and let your child know that they too can be a leader and set a good example for others.  Most children that oversee a bullying event feel powerless.  Tell them that it’s okay to stand up to their peers and say “Stop, that’s not cool,” or to tell a teacher or authority figure.

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