How should I talk to my child about bullies?

At one time or another, all kids experience some form of bullying. It might be in the form of name-calling, harassment, or even physical violence. Bullying occurs with both boys and girls, and can begin in preschool and can continue all the way through adolescence.

Since bullying comes in so many different forms, your child may not even realize he or she is being bullied. Keep in touch with your child about how he or she is getting along on the playground. You should explain to your child about what makes a good friend and how he or she can be a good friend to others. Make sure your child knows that friends do not tease one another, call each other names, or exclude other children from their peer group.

Children usually have their first difficulties with bullies on the playground. From as early as preschool, you can begin role playing with your child how they should respond to taunts and teases from other children. You should also talk about what your child should do if they observe another child being bullied.

From Good Kids, Bad Habits: The RealAge Guide to Raising Healthy Children by Jennifer Trachtenberg.

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