As mums, we want to keep our children away from harm, but sometimes, no matter how close you are or how careful an eye you keep on them things can happen. Your kids may or may not tell you if they are being bullied or picked on so you need to be aware of the signs to look out for.
However, it is also important to remember that while the following 11 signs could indicate that they are being bullied, there might be another reason.
1. They are coming home with cuts and marks that they can’t explain
2. They are going to school with toys but not coming home with them
3. They are reluctant to go to school, even though they used to love going in
4. They have started wetting the bed
5. They are having nightmares that wake them up in the middle of the night
6. They complain of being sick every morning to get off going to school
7. They ask you to walk them right to the school gate or door
8. They cling to you when you are walking to school
9. Their school performance drops drastically
10. They don’t talk about their regular friends like they used to
11. They show signs of a change in behaviour and/or personality
What can you do?
While there are a number of reasons that your little one could be showing any of the above signs, you need to consider the possibility that they are being bullied or picked on. It is important that you ask them what is going on – kids can keep things bottled up no matter how close of a bond you have – so ask: “You’re always hungry: did you not eat your lunch?” or “how come you don’t play with so-and-so anymore?”
While your child might not come out and say “I am being bullied”, their reaction say A LOT, and oftentimes silence can speak volumes. If your youngster is not willing to talk to you about it but you are concerned, make an appointment with the teacher – they will be able to tell you what is going on or keep an eye out.
The most important thing you can do right now is be there for your child. Even if they are not ready to talk now, they may eventually open up when they are.
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