Help! My child is a bully

It can be a real shock to learn that one’s child is exhibiting bullying behaviors. It is hard to accept after all our work at home, that our child could mistreat other children right under our noses. However, we must avoid overreaction and approach this situation calmly and rationally.

It is important to stay calm, to gather information from a variety of sources and assess the situation ourselves without simply snapping into a defensive or “damage-control” attitude.

Keep an open mind, and try to understand the situation from multiple points of view. Think of how the parents on the other side of the conflict would want to be treated, and most importantly, how your own child must feel.

Be flexible and be willing to listen closely to your child’s viewpoint.

Don’t rush into a confrontation with your child, school authorities or other parents.

Remember:

Approach the conversation calmly

Gather information

Weigh your options

Put together a plan