Bullying comes in different forms such as cruel taunts, name-calling, physical bullying and cyberbullying. It happens all over the world and can have adverse effects on the child. How can you handle bullying when it happens to your child?
Signs that your teenager is being bullied
- Isolating themselves from others and skipping activities they previously enjoyed.
- Staying away from the school bathroom as lots of bullies attack in bathrooms. Or avoiding secluded areas.
- Getting unnecessarily upset after receiving text, or calls.
- Making negative statements to reduce their self-worth.
If you notice these signs, you can help the child by:
Listening to what the child has to say
You need to listen to your child before any other thing. This is very important when your child has bullies. You need to listen properly and give the child an opportunity to express himself. Ask what you can do to help in the situation.
Not retaliating
It may be tempting to take the law into your own hands, but it is not worth it. Try to come up with a peaceful way of handling the situation, and you can also set a good example to your child about how to handle conflicts.
Report to an administrator or teacher at the school
The school is in the best position to address bullying issues. So find a teacher that can help. Also, find a teacher the child trusts to help keep the communication lines open about all that’s going on.