Is your child getting bullied? Here are 5 ways to make it stop

As a parent, one of the worst feelings in the world is knowing that your little one might be getting bullied or picked on at his school. A bully may hurt your child through his aggressive behaviour, both physically and mentally. It can be a tormenting experience and can leave a deep rooted impact on a child’s psyche and mental health. This is precisely why one must be on a lookout for warning signs and red flags to check whether your kid is getting bullied.

If you have an inkling that your kid is going through a rough time at school or is getting bullied but isn’t letting you know, observe closely. From spreading nasty rumours, hitting, name-calling to making mean comments about your child publicly, bullying can take many, many forms. As it can certainly get daunting for kids to deal with the bullies all on their own, we are listing down five tips to help your child deal with the bullies and come out victorious.

It is important to encourage your child to talk to you but refrain from directly asking him if he is getting bullied. Instead, you may strike a conversation about mean people who hurt others, either through words and actions, and how it is important to stop them. You may narrate anecdotes or even gently ask about students that your child does not like at the school. Pay close attention to their body language and make them feel comfortable.

It may seem easier said than done, but remember that kids usually do not inform their parents or guardians about bullying as they are not able to understand why it is happening to them. Hence, make sure that you firmly make them understand that it is not their fault that the bully is picking on them. Ask your child to contact their favourite teacher, guidance counsellor, principal, or school administrator to report the bullying.

Teach your child that instead of sulking and crying, confront the bully and tell them what their behaviour is making him feel. Speak to the bully in a strong and confident voice and ask him to stop. An example would be, “Stop pushing me. I do not like it.”

Explain it to your little one that most bullies are looking for a reaction--either anger or tears. If the bully realises that your child is not engaging in any conversation or giving an emotional response, they will eventually move on. Teach your little one to not respond, as if he/she is not listening to the bully only.

Bullies are usually on a lookout for children who are alone or do not have as many friends. Staying close to their friends can actually go a long way in helping them dodge the bullies, till the time they are comfortable in confronting them.