Community Corner

Moms Talk: How To Handle Bullying?

Need some parenting advice?

Each week in Moms Talk, the Haverford-Havertown Patch’s Moms Council of experts and smart moms take your questions, give advice and share solutions.

So grab a cup of coffee and settle in as we start the conversation today with a question: My child is being picked on at school. Teachers say my child should go to them and tell them who is doing it, but sometimes that makes the situation worse. A family member says I should tell my child to fight back, but I think I should speak with the other kids' parents first. Which method is the best or should it be a combination of the two?

Answer from Mom’s Councilmember Emily Teeple Morrison (mother of 2): Assuming your child has tried the basic tactic of ignoring the bully and walking away (bullies are generally looking for a response so this might discourage the bully), I think I would try to meet with the teacher to discuss what could remedy the situation or tactics to try. Explain the fear of making the situation worse to the teacher, he/she will likely understand and be able to assist in coming up with a solution.

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Answer from Mom’s Councilmember Julie Carosella (mother of 3): I think it should be a combination of both. The teacher and other parent should be aware of it so that they could keep an eye on it, but your child needs to know what to do. I have told my child to just walk away when something like that happens and to try to ignore it, as hard as that might be. If it does get to the point that walking away is not working, then the school does need to intervene. It is a different world then it once was and working with the school for strategies to keep your child safe and informed is so important.

Answer from Mom’s Councilmember Denise Ricchini(mother of 1): I think the best way for a child to handle a bully in school is to first tell their teacher and parents.  However, if it continues after being addressed,  I think the child should defend themselves.  Children can be very mean and now with texting and social networks, they seem to have no fear when it comes to hurting another child's feelings.

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