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Parenting

2012-11-07 11:42:15

What can I do about bullying?

Q- My child, who is developmentally delayed, has received quite a bit of bullying. It crushes him. What can I do to build him up?

A- This is a fantastic question. We are all pained by bullying, but as a parent of a developmentally challenged child it is our biggest fear. Studies have shown that an introduction to your child and their disability in advance of attending a new grade can be beneficial to your child, the fellow classmates, and to the teacher. This provides answers to unanswered questions for students in the class. It also invites you and your child the opportunity to guide the fellow students to the comforts and discomforts of your child. It has been proven that this technique helps with bullying. As for building your child up after bullying, provide him with the understanding he needs to vent. Children need to be heard, and sometimes we react before fully listening to them. Our reactions as parents make the issue a lot worse than it may be. After he has had the opportunity to explain in detail his issues, ask him what he would like to do to resolve this bullying. Giving your child the opportunity to make choices builds his self esteem and many times allows him to come up with a positive opportunity to resolve the problem with his fellow classmate. Even our children with developmental disabilities need to be a part of making choices concerning their welfare. This gives them confidence and pride in themselves. Best wishes to you and your child. I do suggest an Introduction and Q & A with classmates. Studies show this introduction to their disability provides a deeper understanding for their classmates, and enhances stronger life long relationships for your child.