There seems to be an alarming amount of stories in the news lately about "bullying". If you're a parent of a child in school, you know it's a big concern. So how do you help your child and what are the signs to look for that your child might be the victim of a bully? Child and parenting expert Dr. Michele Borba joined us this morning for some helpful and timely advice.
To listen to our conversation with Michele, check out the links at the bottom of this post.
One quick way to help your kids deal with a bully is to remember the word "CALM"
C - be calm
A - be assertive
L - look the bully in the eye
M - make some noise
Signs to look for ...
Repeated change in your child's behavior and regular routines
Clingy ... they don't want to go outside or don't want to go to school
Afraid of incoming texts or emails (cyber-bullying)
Changes in their sleep, lack of focus, changes in their grades
When they come home, they run to the bathroom - 43% of bullying happens in unsupervised school bathrooms
Expensive items leaving your home - your child could be the victim of extortion
They run to the fridge when they get home - especially girls - they are being excluded in the lunchroom and don't feel safe
Hear what Michele had to say (click links below to listen) ...
Dr. Michele Borba - Key Questions to ask your child
Dr. Michele Borba - How to help your child when confronted by a bully
Dr. Michele Borba - Signs to look for ...