Bullying is a serious problem that can have a devastating impact on children. But there are things you can do to teach your child how to deal with a bully and stand up for themselves. In this blog post, we’ll talk about 10 things a kid can say to quickly deal with a bully.
Before you read any further, you may want to read Dad’s Message to the Kids Who Bullied His Daughter. Big trigger warning here.
How to Deal With a Bully: 10 Tips for Kids
My own kiddo has been bullied so I can tell you from experience it’s one of the most upsetting, frustrating things I’ve dealt with as a mom. I hope these tips help and please leave me a comment here or on Facebook if you have had a child who was bullied and how you handled it.
First, explain what bullying is
- Teasing
- Talking about hurting someone
- Spreading rumors
- Leaving kids out on purpose
- Attacking someone by hitting them or yelling at them
10 things your child can say or do to deal with a bully when it’s happening
Walk away. If you can, walk away from the bully. This doesn’t mean that you’re giving up or that you’re afraid. It simply means that you’re not going to let the bully control you.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you feel unsafe, ask a trusted adult or bystander for help. Always tell your parents as soon as possible.
Laugh out loud. It lets them know that you think what they’re saying is silly and you don’t care.
Stand up straight and tall. This will make you look more confident and less likely to be a target.
Make eye contact with the bully. This shows that you’re not afraid of them.
Speak in a calm and confident voice. This shows that you’re not going to be intimidated by the bully.
Try to have friends or an adult nearby. Bullies don’t want attention from adults. Friends can get help for you and if there is an adult nearby, bullies aren’t likely to say anything to you.
I feel sorry for you. That lets the bully know that they can’t make you angry because all you can feel is sorry for them.
Whatever. That’s it, just one word. Say “whatever” and walk away.
Sorry, can’t hear you. Let them know you’re not even listening to them.
These 10 tips can be easily remembered by children, especially if you practice them at home in their safe spaces. They also convey a sense of confidence which not only helps with bullies but will help over and over again in their lives as they grow up.
Sher Bailey has been a dedicated voice for the Love and Marriage blog for over a decade, sharing practical advice on everything from stretching a grocery budget to finding the best homeschooling resources. She writes from the unique perspective of a full-time traveler, living and working on the road in her motorhome alongside her husband and their two cats. Sher’s diverse body of work is fueled by her belief that with the right tools and a little creativity, any challenge can be turned into an opportunity for growth and adventure.
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