Bullying is rampant these days, but kids and families are more aware of this now. While no nobody assumes that their child is a bully, it can happen to anyone. No parent wants to accept or acknowledge that their child is bully. The last think you want is to get a call from other parents or the school that your child is bullying others. Children do bully each other and sometimes without realizing that they are wrong.

It can come as a shock if anyone ever tells you that your child is a bully. Try not to dwell on it and don’t have an instant reaction, but move forward to tackle the issue.

Address the Problem

Once you have come to know your child is bullying someone it is best to talk to them immediately. You have to make it clear to them that you are aware of their behavior. Make it clear to them that it is not acceptable and will not be tolerated. Avid using blaming words and shameful words, and voice your concerns and that they will have to improve.

Have a Conversation

In order to understand what actually happened you need to have a conversation with your child. Relax them and take them into confidence before asking them questions. Bullying has many root causes and to understand what actually happened you need to a have a conversation with your child. Bullying could be a fight back, or could also happen because of peer pressure. But, don’t make them think that there is an excuse for bad behavior. The conversation is for you to understand and better handle the situation. It will also help your child open up to you.

Teach Them to own Up

Convey clearly to your child that bullying is not right and it was a choice they made and they should own up their mistake and promise to change their behavior. They need to fully accept their behavior and ensure they will change it. Show them how it is not okay to treat other people that way and that it could have a physical and emotional effect on them.

Pay Attention 

Pay attention to your child’s behavior. Are they making efforts to change? Or are they growing agitated about it? get more involved in their day to day school activities and friends. Teach them the kind of friends they need to have and the friends they need to avoid. Engage them in personality building activities so they change their behavior.

Seek help

If all measures don’t work seek help from a child counsellor who might be able to help you with it. They can help you understand your child’s feelings better and also help you stream line their energy. A child counsellor can also help your child articulate their problems better.