What To Do If Your Child Is a Bully?
No parent wants to hear that her child is a bully. It may be a shock and you may be at a loss about what steps to take. But bullying is also a serious issue for the aggressor. It is important to remain calm and not react in anger or frustration.
If your child is said to be engaging in bullying behaviors it might be a sign of serious distress. He might be experiencing anxiety or depression and have difficulty regulating his emotions and behavior. Here are five ways to keep your kid from being a bully.
🔵 Don’t accuse your child of bullying.
Avoid the temptation to yell. Don’t be surprised if he admits nothing and shows no remorse. You should remind him of how he felt the last time someone was mean to him.
🔵 Be realistic.
It takes time to change behavior. Recognize that there may be setbacks. Be patient as your child learns new ways of handling feelings and conflict. Keep your love and support visible.
🔵 Prevent bullying before it starts.
Ask the teacher where the bullying occurs. If it’s on the school bus, try assigned seating — putting your child near the bus driver and away from his target. If it’s at recess, have your child play only in a well-supervised area.
🔵 Help your child control her emotions.
Use role-playing to help her regulate her feelings.
🔵 Stay connected.
In some ways the most important action you can take is to build an open channel of communication with your child about his day-to-day life that will put you in a better position to recognize signs of bullying and trouble.
Coach Benjamin Mizrahi. Educator. Learning Specialist. Family Coach. Father. Husband.
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