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WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR CHILD IS THE BULLY

Bullies come in many different shapes and sizes and as a parent, you may be shocked to learn that your child is the bully.  The one intentionally inflicting pain and humiliation on other children.

If you have discovered that your child is the one doing the bullying, you may feel a range of emotions.

It can be difficult to know what to do in this situation, but the truth is you can help your child stop this behavior.

Taking immediate action can help to teach your little one new ways to handle peer pressure, conflict and their own personal emotions.

What to do when your child is the bully

MY CHILD IS THE BULLY… NOW WHAT?

Children that bully often have certain characteristics. There may be some easy to pinpoint reasons and some that aren’t so easy to identify.

CHILDREN WHO BULLY OFTEN:

  • Want to be in control
  • May be trying to impress peers
  • Come from families where they have been bullied
  • Have parents that do not set rules or boundaries
  • May be the victims of bullying
  • Lack compassion and empathy
  • Have low self-esteem

There are many things that you, as their parent can do to help your child make better, kinder choices. No matter what the reason for their bullying stints, you can help to change it.

My child is the bully. What do I do?

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR CHILD IS THE BULLY

STAY CALM

Take deep cleansing breaths and make sure that you deal with the situation with a level head.

LISTEN

Now is the time to listen to what other people have to say about your child’s behavior choices and take the time to hear your little one’s side of the story.

START A CONVERSATION

If you are trying to understand what is behind your child’s behavior, starting a conversation with them will help. Take the time to ask questions and listen to their answers.

EXPLAIN

Sit down with your little one and let your child know just how hurtful their behavior can be.  Some children may not realize that their words and actions are hurting others.

BE CLEAR

Make it very clear to your child that bullying behaviors will not be tolerated and that they will face consequences for their behavior if it continues.

SET AN EXAMPLE

Make sure that you are setting a positive example for your little ones. Model calm, kind and compassionate behavior and your child will be more likely to follow in your footsteps.

CONSIDER COUNSELLING

There is no harm in seeking out some additional help and resources to deal with a situation like this.  Try reading the book No More Mean Girls by Katie Hurley to nip mean girl behavior in the bud.

The best way to help your child is to make sure that you prevent bullying behaviors in the first place.

Being proactive is a great way to prevent bullying. Parents really do play a significant role in putting a stop to their child’s bullying behavior.

It is incredibly important that a stand against bullying is taken, and the time is now.

You may also like this post on HOW TO ENCOURAGE KINDNESS:

How to encourage your child to be kind

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