Children who fall into the following categories are often the victim of bullying:
Those with learning disabilities and disorders, or with invisible disabilities.
A person of minority; a girl or boy taking a non traditional class.
A child who is very mature or immature.
Children who are loners.
Children who are physically or mentally handicapped.
Children who experience overwhelming emotions or who are easily upset.
Shy children and those with low self esteem.
Children who are small or large for their age.
Signs That Your Child is a Victim of Bullying
Be sure to listen to what your child is telling you. Some children tend to put their real feelings into situations that aren’t forthright. Be alert for hidden messages. Then, talk to your child about the situation. Talking about the school bully and knowing you care about what’s happening in his life can be a big help to your child. Your child will feel very venerable when discussing the subject, so be sure to show him love and support.
Never make light of reports of bullying and don’t add fuel to the fire by becoming angry or calling your child a wimp. Don’t allow your child to see that you are upset over a bullying incident. The child may misinterpret anger or sadness for disappointment in them. Always let the child know that you believe the bullying incidents are real and that you understand how he feels. Assure him that the bullying is not his fault and that bullies are often confused and unhappy people who feel bad about themselves.
If you suspect your child is the victim of bullying, ask these questions:
Do you enjoy riding the school bus to and from school?
What types of activities take place in the school cafeteria and hallways at lunch time?
Who do you walk with to meet the school bus and do you walk home from the bus with the same friends?
Are there any bullies in our neighborhood or at your school?
Do you know anyone who receives threatening e-mails or messages while they are on the computer?
Do you know anyone who is threatened, either verbally or physically?
Do you know anyone who is taunted, teased or called names?
Do you have any enemies? If so, why do you think they are your enemy?
Questions such as these will make it easier for your child to open up and talk about any incidents of bullying that has happened to him. The child will also realize that other kids are victims of bullying and he won’t feel so alone.
Have young children draw pictures or use hand puppets to reenact incidents of bullying. Make it a game. You may be surprised at what you find out.