their emotions and could be experiencing fear, anger, or sadness.”
In many cases, children may not be prepared to share their feelings instantly, and that’s perfectly normal, Velasco noted. They might be grappling with a mix of emotions—fear, anger, and sadness—that can make it challenging for them to communicate their experiences clearly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, navigating the complexities of bullying requires vigilance and engagement from parents. By being attuned to changes in their child’s behavior and emotions, fostering open lines of communication, and responding thoughtfully when a child discloses their experiences, parents can play a pivotal role in addressing bullying. This challenging issue, which extends beyond childhood, underscores the importance of creating a supportive environment where children feel safe and empowered to speak out. By being proactive and informed, parents can help their children build resilience and navigate these difficult situations more effectively.“insecurities and could experience fear, anger, or sadness.”
“As a parent who listens, it’s essential to comprehend the situation thoroughly before providing guidance on their experience,” Velasco stated. By doing this, you are helping them learn to navigate their emotions, a vital life skill, as highlighted by Doering. While this may prove particularly challenging for numerous parents, its significance cannot be overstated.
What should you do if you suspect your child is experiencing bullying?
Reassure your child about the need to avoid keeping the bullying to themselves. “Talk with your child about the importance of notifying a teacher or a trusted adult in the community so that all responsible adults (parents, teachers, school officials) can work together to protect all children from bullying,” Dr. Prior advised. Your child may wish to confront the bully alone or might prefer your assistance in addressing the issue. “In both scenarios, it is crucial to create a strategy to support your child if the bullying continues,” Dr. Prior emphasized.
It’s also important to ensure that any communication with teachers, school staff, or other parents is approached with compassion and understanding. Although emotions may run high after speaking with your child, this is not the time to send an angry email.
“Usually, I don’t recommend reaching out to the other child’s parents, as this can escalate tensions,” Doering noted. Start by discussing your concerns with the classroom teacher, seeking clarity and presenting your worries calmly. “If there’s no improvement, you can escalate the issue to the school counselor and beyond, but be sure to articulate your expectations. If they don’t offer solutions, you may need to come up with suggestions yourself,” Doering summarized.
Most schools have established policies, and each child has the right to feel safe. “Reassure your child with a saying like ‘every child deserves to feel safe,’” Velasco suggested. “Throughout this process, I encourage parents to recognize their child’s courage in sharing their experiences.”
Reporting a bullying incident is not the same as tattling, and it is often necessary to speak up. Remind your child that confiding in you is safe and emphasize that you are together in this journey, committed to providing them with the necessary support.
