Bullying is a problem that unfortunately affects many children. As parents, it is extremely important to be aware of this phenomenon, to recognize its signs and to be able to talk about it with our children.
What is bullying?
Bullying is a set of repeated, intentional actions aimed at hurting someone physically, verbally or emotionally. This includes teasing, spreading rumours, physical violence and online bullying. The impact of bullying can be deep and long-lasting, so it is very important as parents to recognize it in time and intervene.
Why is it critical to talk about it?
- Emotional and mental health : Bullying can have long-term effects on children's emotional and mental health. It can cause depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.
- Safety and well-being : The safety and well-being of children is of primary importance to all parents. Bullying prevents them from feeling safe and comfortable.
- Educational performance : Bullying negatively affects children's learning ability and school performance.
- Social development : Bullying can prevent children from developing and maintaining healthy social relationships.
How can you recognize the signs of bullying?
Physical signs:
- Injuries : Repetitive injuries for which the child cannot provide an adequate explanation.
- Damaged items : Damaged clothes, books or other personal items.
Emotional and behavioral signs:
- Withdrawal : The child suddenly becomes withdrawn and avoids social situations.
- Mood changes : Sudden mood changes, signs of anxiety or depression.
- Deterioration of school performance : The child suddenly performs worse at school, avoids school activities.
Communication signals:
- Doesn't talk about school : The child avoids talking about school and doesn't want to talk about his day.
- Evasive answers to questions : Evasive or evasive answers to questions about bullying.
Tips and examples for handling it
- Open communication : Talk openly with your child about bullying. Let's ask how you feel at school and make sure you can turn to us for help at any time. “How did you feel at school today? Did something happen that hurt you?”
- Emotional support : Let's assure our child that we are by his side and support him in every situation. "I know it can be hard, but I'm always here for you and we'll get through this together."
- Contacting the school : If you suspect that your child is being bullied, contact the school's teachers or principal. Please investigate the matter and take steps to resolve the issue.
- Teaching self-defense techniques : Teach your child how to defend himself with words and actions. "If someone tries to hurt you, tell them firmly to stop and tell a teacher immediately."
- Strengthening friendships : Help your child develop strong friendships that can provide him with a support network. "Let's invite your friends to a joint program so we can get to know them better."
- Visiting professionals : There comes a point when, as parents, we can no longer help, and it is critical to call in the relevant professionals in time: teachers, coaches, child protection and even the police.
Bullying is a serious problem that we must pay attention to. As parents, it is our job to recognize the signs, talk to our child about it, and provide them with the support they need. With open communication, emotional support and effective steps, we can help our child live safely and happily.
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How do we talk about this with our children?
Unfortunately, bullying can affect many children. As parents, it is very important to talk about this problem with our children, so that they understand what bullying means, how to recognize it and what to do about it.
Toddlers (3-6 years)
At this age, children still think very simply, so conversations about bullying must be approached in a simple, understandable way.
Tips and examples:
- Let's tell stories : "Let's read stories in which the characters encounter bullying and solve the problem. For example, when a little bunny is poked but ends up asking a bigger rabbit for help.”
- Let's ask their feelings : "How would you feel if someone hurt you or made fun of you? What would you do if you saw someone being hurt?”
- Role-play : "Enact situations where someone is being bullied and show how to ask an adult or friend for help."
Adolescents (7-12 years)
Teenagers already understand complex situations and feelings better, so we can have deeper conversations with them about bullying.
Tips and examples:
- Let's talk openly about school experiences : "How did you feel at school today? Did something happen that hurt you? Have you seen anyone being poked?”
- Let's teach empathy : "Let's talk about how a child who is being hurt might feel. What can you do to help him?”
- Let's make a joint plan : "What would you do if you or a friend were being bullied? Who would you turn to for help? Let's discuss the possibilities together."
Teenagers (13-18 years)
Independence and emotional depth are especially important for teenagers, so conversations about bullying can be correspondingly deeper and more complex.
Tips and examples:
- Open and honest conversations : "How have you been feeling at school lately? Was there anything that bothered you or hurt you? Have you ever felt that someone is being bullied?"
- Support and strengthening of trust : "You need to know that I am always here for you, no matter what happens. You don't have to deal with problems alone.”
- Discussing specific situations : "Let's talk about what you would do in a given situation. If you saw someone being bullied online, what would you do? How can you help and who can you contact?”
- Self-defense techniques : “Teach them how to defend themselves verbally and how to ask for help. 'If someone says hurtful things to you, tell them firmly to stop and tell an adult.'"
Talking about bullying in all age groups is essential for our children to understand, recognize and deal with bullying. As parents, it is our job to talk openly and honestly with them about this problem, to provide support and help them prepare for such situations. Let's pay attention to our children's feelings and experiences and assure them that they can always count on us.
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