Is Your Child Being Bullied? Here’s How You Can Help from an Early Age
When we hear the word bullying, we often imagine big kids in schoolyards. But the truth is, bullying can start as early as preschool — through teasing, pushing, or even excluding someone from playing. That’s why it’s so important for parents to recognize the early signs and take action from the very beginning.
5 Gentle Ways to Help Your Child from Young
1. Teach Them About Emotions
Help your child name and understand their emotions — anger, sadness, fear. When a child can identify what they’re feeling, it becomes easier for them to talk about what happened.
2. Encourage Open Sharing
Make it a habit to ask your child about their day. Simple questions like “Was school fun today?” or “Did anything weird happen?” give your child the opportunity to open up — especially when they know you’re really listening.
3. Build Empathy & Respect
Teach your child to respect others, even if they are different. A child who understands empathy is less likely to bully and more likely to form healthy friendships.
4. Empower Them to Say ‘No’
Teach your child it’s okay to say “no” when something makes them uncomfortable. Let them know which trusted adults they can talk to. Try saying: “If someone makes you feel unsafe, you can always tell Mom or Dad.”
Children who know they have a safe space at home and trusted adults to talk to will feel braver and less likely to fall into silent suffering.
You don’t have to wait until your child becomes a victim of bullying to take action. Start early by showing empathy, being present, and setting an example.
Let’s raise children who are emotionally strong, kind-hearted, and confident enough to speak up.
If you’ve experienced a bullying situation with your child or have tips that worked, feel free to share in the comments. Your story might help another parent out there 💛