Kids are supposed to go to school to learn about reading, writing and arithmetic. Unfortunately, school children also learn about bullies. A bully can make each day a traumatic experience for a child. A bully can cause both physical and emotional damage. If your child is the victim of a bully, learn how to help your child deal with it.
Types
Types of bullying can include physical, verbal and emotional. Cyber bullying is also a type of bullying. Pushing, punching, kicking and tripping are examples of physical bullying. Oral bullying includes insulting, teasing and taunting other kids. Cyber bullying refers to harassing another child through emails, chat rooms or social networking sites.
Communication
If your child is dealing with a bully, you can help him by keeping the lines of communication open. Encourage your child to talk to you or his teachers about the issues he is facing with a bully. Discussing the problem with you and school officials can make your child feel as though he is not coping with the situation by himself. In addition, the more you know about the problem, the better you can deal with it.
Supervision
Talk to school administrators about adult supervision on the playground, in the cafeteria and on buses. These are all areas where bullying typically occurs. If adults keep a watchful eye on kids in these places, they can help diffuse bullying. It might be possible for you and other concerned parents to volunteer to help supervise the children. You can also help your child avoid cyber bullying by being aware of his online activities.
Preparation
If you help your child prepare for encounters with a bully, then he'll be better able to handle these uncomfortable situations. For example, you can practice lines that your child can say to the bully. Try to come up with lines that make light of the bully's antics and show him that he is not bothering your child. A bully might stop taunting your child if he feels he is not having an effect.
Psychological Impact
Bullies generally target kids who they view as weak, small or somehow different from other children. Bullies often try to cover up their own insecurities by degrading other kids. The cruel words and actions of bullies can make children feel afraid, depressed and inadequate. It is important that parents play an active role in keeping their kids mentally healthy.
Misconceptions
Some parents believe that a good punch in the nose is the best way to deal with a bully. However, this reaction could escalate the violence with a bully and can cause more harm to your child. Ignoring a bully or going to a teacher are often safer options. On the other hand, it's a good idea to enroll your child in a martial arts class. A martial arts program can help increase your child's self-confidence. Your child can also learn how to defend himself if he is cornered by a bully and fighting back is the only option.
