How To Tell If Your Child Is Being Bullied.....

Step 1: Know The Different Types of Bullying

There are three types of bullying: physical, verbal, and relational. Physical bullying involves kicking, pinching, or hitting a victim or stealing the victim's belongings. Verbal bullying is the use of words to hurt, intimidate, or insult a victim. Relational bullying is more complex, the bully will convince others to reject, hurt, or abuse the victim.

Step 2: Look For Signs

A victim of bullying will usually display signs and symptoms of being bullied and it's important to know what these are. One of the most common signs is a child's reluctance or refusal to go to school. Other signs include unusual moodiness, torn clothes, bruising, scratches, loss of personal belongings, repeated requests for money (to be given to the bully), a decline in grades, a usually extroverted child displaying signs of shyness, an unwillingness to go out or participate in social activities, and even anger.

Step 3: Gently Approach The Issue With Your Child

A child who is being bullied will often not disclose what is happening to them for fear of repercussions or further bullying. You should tread lightly when approaching the issue with them because they may be too scared to talk about it. They may feel embarrassed, angry, sad or even feel a sense of guilt. Don't go wading in in a confrontational manner. Be sensitive to their feelings. Most importantly of all, reassure them that it is not their fault. Assure them that you are there to help them find a solution and will work with them to make the bullying stop. They will probably feel relieved that you finally know and are going to help them . Now you know they're being bullied, you are ready to take action.