Bullying in Kindergarten: What Parents Need to Know

Kindergarten and Preschool is supposed to be a fun time away from home for our young children to start learning the fundamentals. However, no one would expect this is also the time that bullying can start.

Children at this young age are learning how to get along with others and don't necessarily know how to play with others. They often use aggression to solve problems because that is all they know at this age.

Children between the ages of 3-5 are learning how to make friends, share toys and play well with others. However, these are new skills that can often lead to frustration. Its typical for young children that are frustrated to react by hurting others by yelling, name calling and even physical contact.

Here is our guide on helping your children with bullying in Preschool and Kindergarten.

Manage Feelings

It is important at this age to teach your child how to control emotions and feelings. This will help prevent outbursts or acting out against other kids in the future. Giving your child the skills to control emotions can help your child keep cool in a heated situation.

Problem-Solving Skills.

Tantrums wont solve problems and the sooner your child discovers how to resolve problems the better. Parents should encourage their children to work through problems by restating the problem and asking for possible solutions. This will help your child have more positive relationships with friends

Practice Skills

Parents can help their children practice import skills like listening, sharing, cooperating, and taking turns without children even knowing. Invite over a couple of your child's friends and play games like "Simon Says", or other listening, group games.

Understand Diversity

Parents should explain to their children how everyone is different. It is important to start

these conversations when they are young and open up discussions which answer your child's questions. This will teach them to appreciate and respect others.

Make Friends

Arrange playdates for your child. This will help your child to learn to interact with others.

Speak up

Parents should encourage their children to speak up if they see bullying happening. Children should be encouraged to tell a teacher or parent if they witness any bullying behavior.

Preschool and Kindergarteners will experience bullying but they will also learn about how to prevent it. Parents play an important role in teaching young children about bullying and helping them develop skills and techniques to handle it.