What happens if your child is being bullied at school?
Bullying can leave deep emotional scars. And in extreme situations, it can involve violent threats, property damage, or someone getting seriously hurt. If your child is being bullied, you want to act to help stop it, if possible. You can help your child cope with teasing, bullying, or mean gossip, and lessen its lasting impact.
Why are kids reluctant to tell adults about bullying?
Kids are often reluctant to tell adults about bullying because they feel embarrassed and ashamed that it’s happening, or worry that their parents will be disappointed, upset, angry, or reactive. Sometimes kids feel like it’s their own fault, that if they looked or acted differently it wouldn’t be happening.
When does teasing become a form of bullying?
Most kids have been teased by a sibling or a friend at some point. And it’s not usually harmful when done in a playful, friendly, and mutual way, and both kids find it funny. But when teasing becomes hurtful, unkind, and constant, it crosses the line into bullying and needs to stop.
What should I do if my child is a victim of bullying?
In surveys, most kids and teens say that bullying happens at school. Let someone at school (the principal, school nurse, or a counselor or teacher) know about the situation. Often they can watch and take steps to prevent further problems. “Bullying” can describe a wide range of situations, so there’s no one-size-fits all approach.
Children who are bullied suffer physical and emotional injuries. Bullying increases the risk of depression, anxiety, sleep difficulties, poor grades, and self-harm, including suicide. ² Parents have the right to expect their child’s school to be a safe environment. Here’s what you can do if your child is being bullied at school.
What should a school do to protect a disabled child from bullying?
The school must maintain an environment that supports the disabled child’s education plan. That includes protecting the child from bullies, once the school is aware of the bullying. Every U.S. state and territory, and many large metropolitan areas have laws and guidelines to protect children from bullying.
Is there a federal law against bullying in schools?
In a separate criminal proceeding, Allen-Caulboy pleaded guilty to one felony count of child abuse and two misdemeanor charges. The plea agreement included six months in jail and the surrender of her teaching credentials. There are no current federal laws specifically aimed at bullying.
How to parent a child who has experienced trauma?
Parenting a Child Who Has Experienced Trauma. Children who have experienced traumatic events need to feel safe and loved. All parents want to provide this kind of nurturing home for their children. However, when parents do not have an understanding of the effects of trauma, they may misinterpret their child’s behavior and end up