What is Bullying?
A Guide for Parents of Elementary School Children
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Bullying is a concern that affects many children, but with understanding and teamwork, we can help keep our kids safe and happy at school. This guide will help you recognize what bullying is (and isn’t), spot the signs, and learn how to support your child. Together, we can build a caring community where every child feels respected and secure.
What Bullying Is:
What Bullying Is:
Bullying is when a child is repeatedly hurt, scared, or teased on purpose by another child or group of children.
It can be physical (hitting, pushing), verbal (name-calling, threats), or social (leaving someone out, spreading rumors).
Bullying happens over time, not just once. It makes children feel sad, scared, or alone.
What Bullying Is NOT:
What Bullying Is NOT:
A one-time disagreement or argument between friends.
Accidental bumps or mistakes.
Normal conflicts that kids can solve by talking or with adult help.
Signs Your Child May Be Experiencing Bullying:
Signs Your Child May Be Experiencing Bullying:
Reluctance or fear of going to school
Unexplained injuries or torn clothes
Frequent headaches, stomachaches, or other complaints
Mood changes like sadness, anxiety, or anger
Withdrawal from friends or activities
Loss of appetite or trouble sleeping
Drop in school performance or focus
Low self-esteem or feeling worthless
Avoiding certain places or routes
Missing belongings or money
Talking to Your Child About Bullying
Talking to Your Child About Bullying
Use simple, clear language and examples
Create a safe, calm space for sharing
Ask open-ended questions about their feelings
Listen carefully and show empathy
Discuss safe ways to respond (telling an adult, staying with friends)
Practice responses through role-play
Emphasize kindness, respect, and standing up for others
Reassure your child they are not alone
Conversation Guide: Talking with Your Child About Bullying
Conversation Guide: Talking with Your Child About Bullying
1. Start with a gentle opener:
“I want to talk about how things are going at school. How do you feel when you’re there?”
2. Ask about friendships and feelings:
“Who do you like to play with?”
“Are there times when someone isn’t very nice to you or others?”
3. Explain what bullying means:
“Bullying is when someone is mean over and over on purpose, like name-calling, pushing, or leaving someone out.”
4. Encourage sharing without pressure:
“If anything like that ever happens to you, you can always tell me or a grown-up you trust.”
5. Talk about ways to respond:
“If someone is mean, it’s okay to walk away, stay close to friends, or tell a teacher.”
6. Reassure and support:
“You are important and deserve to feel safe and happy. I’m here to help you.”
7. Keep the door open:
“You can always come to me anytime you want to talk, okay?”
How Parents Can Support Their Child
Listen Carefully
Encourage your child to share their feelings and experiences. Let them know you believe and support them.Stay Calm and Positive
Show understanding and avoid blaming your child. Bullying is not their fault.Teach Kindness and Respect
Model respectful behavior and discuss why treating others kindly matters.Encourage Problem Solving
Help your child think of safe ways to respond, like walking away or telling a trusted adult.Communicate with the School
Work with teachers and staff to ensure your child’s safety and well-being.Build Your Child’s Confidence
Praise their strengths and encourage friendships through activities outside school.Know When to Seek Help
If bullying continues or your child feels very upset, talk to a counselor or mental health professional.
Parents can collaborate with teachers effectively to address bullying by following these steps:
Open Communication
Reach out promptly if your child reports bullying or you notice signs. Share details calmly and clearly with the teacher.Stay Informed
Ask about the school’s bullying policies, procedures, and how incidents are handled.Work as a Team
Express your willingness to partner with the teacher and school staff to support your child’s safety and well-being.Share Observations
Provide any relevant information from home that might help staff understand your child’s experience better.Follow Up Regularly
Request updates on actions taken and your child’s progress. Keep the dialogue ongoing.Encourage Positive Behavior
Support school efforts to promote kindness, respect, and inclusion both at home and in the classroom.Attend Meetings and Workshops
Participate in school events focused on bullying prevention and creating a positive school climate.Advocate Respectfully
If concerns persist, work through the proper channels with patience, focusing on solutions rather than blame.
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