Steps to Take for Grade School Bullying

Grade school bullies often target peers with low self-confidence.

While classrooms should be safe environments where students can learn, bullying can turn even the most inviting school into a nightmare for children. Bullying can take the form of physical violence or verbal abuse, such as habitual name-calling and taunting. Typically, bullies direct their cruelty towards students who are new to the grade school or peers who do not have a large, supportive group of friends.

Instructions

Steps for Parents

1. Listen to your child's frustrations. Be an outlet for anger, rather than allowing your child to take his anger out in the form of physical violence.

2. Console your child by reminding him that he is not the only victim of bullying. Share with him your experiences with grade school bullies. Do not place the blame on your child. In addition, avoid overreacting or downplaying the situation. These reactions may lower the chances of your child talking to you about the problem in the future.

3. Build your child's self-esteem by helping him develop strong social skills and a confident appearance. Encourage him to be active and participate in extracurricular activities that he enjoys, which may expand his circle of grade-school friends. However, do not force activities onto him.

4. Consult a member of the grade-school staff if the bullying becomes so severe that your child suffers injury or faces threat of injury. You may also want to consider contacting the bully's parents and taking legal action.

Steps for Grade School Children

1. Ignore the bully and avoid showing him that you are upset or angry. Sometimes bullies feed off attention or fear. Once you demonstrate that his actions can't faze you, he may lose interest.

2. Find a group of loyal friends. Bullies are less likely to bother students who are part of a close-knit social circle. Reliable friends will stand up for you, while encouraging you to stand up for yourself. When on the playground, stay near your friends if the bully tries to start trouble.

3. Talk to an adult. While some children believe that asking an adult for help is a cowardly way out of the situation, this is not always the case. An adult, especially an older sibling, parent or guidance counselor, can offer you support and advice for dealing with bullies. In addition, you may feel better after disclosing your frustrations to another person.

4. Join a youth martial arts club. While you may never have to use the self-defense techniques you learn in the class, the experience will help you develop a level of self-confidence that will naturally deter bullies. If you're not interested in martial arts, any hobby that develops your confidence will suffice.

References

• Teens Health: Dealing with Bullies
• Connect with Kids: Grade School Bullying