As a new school year begins, it’s no surprise that some kids are experiencing the jitters. While some complaining is normal, sometimes a child’s school refusal stems from a desperate need to never again face the teasing and bullying they experienced just a few short months ago.
For children who have been the victims of taunting and teasing in the past, the thought of heading into another school year can be unbearable, regardless of Mom and Dad’s well-meaning pep talks or their promises that this year will be different.
If you have a child who is legitimately anxious about returning to school, here are a few things to keep in mind. I’ll be exploring this topic in additional articles this month, so stay tuned for more.
– Encourage your child to avoid engaging with kids (crying, whining, pouting) if they bother him. Displays of weakness offer bullies the reaction they’re looking for. The best first response is to simply walk away.
– Help empower your child with role plays that teach her body language and verbal tools she can use to deter a would-be bully. “No! Back off! Stop bugging me!” can help communicate a level of assertiveness that will make a child less of a viable target.
– Talk with the teacher or principal about arranging a meeting with kids who have been bullies to establish clear, firm consequences for any and all unkind behavior.
Most importantly, allow your child to offload her concerns freely, and don’t engage in debates when she announces that she’s quitting fourth grade. Offer empathy and support: “I understand you’re afraid of going through more of the awful things that happened last year. We’re going to make some changes so that doesn’t happen anymore.
Give your child the chance to express her fears, work with the school to establish a strong No-Bullying policy, and empower your child so she feels safe at school. Every child deserves to know we are their advocates and that they can go to school each day knowing their physical and emotional welfare will be guarded with care.
