Bullying is when kids make fun of other kids. A bully may hurt another kid. This is a big problem in schools.

This problem is not only in Canada. It happens in many places all over the world. With social media, a new kind of bullying has started. This is called cyber bullying. It is a new danger for kids.

Is you child being bullied?

Kids who are new to a place can be made fun of more. They may look or talk in a different way.

All kinds of making fun are not nice. Teach your child how to handle it. They must know that it’s okay to tell grown-ups when this happens. You should notice the signs that your kid might be getting hurt. Some of these signs are:

• Marks and scratches that can’t be explained.
• Acting differently, especially when with others.
• Feeling very sad, worried, or alone.
• Not thinking well about themselves.
• Being scared of certain places.
• Crying before and after school, or a team sport or event.
• Feeling not well but not being sick.
• Thinking about ending their life.
• Wanting to run away, or leave school or a team.
• Not wanting to go to fun events that they used to like.
• Personal things being broken for no reason. Losing money or personal items.
• Not wanting to use their computer or phone.

You can also watch this video from Aboutkidshealth.ca:

Is your child a bully?

A kid who feels hurt might start to act badly. Look for these signs if you think your kid might be a bully:

• Acting differently than usual, especially when other people are around.
• They don’t keep friends for a long time. Their friends keep changing.
• Showing signs of being angry, sad, worried, or alone.
• They demand special treatment. They find it hard to say sorry to others.
• They make jokes that hurt others.
• Spending time at places like the local shop, places where kids play, or school without a clear reason.
• They keep secrets. They judge and blame others.
• They think about ending their life. They think about running away or leaving school.
• They don’t care about social events that they used to enjoy.
• They have personal items, money, food that can’t be explained.
• They act in a secret way when they use a phone or computer.
• The school contacts you because they are worried about your kid’s behavior.

Watch this video from Aboutkidshealth.ca to learn more:

The best way to stop bullying (and stop your kid from becoming a bully) is to help your kid feel good about themselves. A kid who is loved, taught good behavior, and to respect themselves can handle pressures better.

It’s important to be involved in your kid’s life. You need to know what happens to them at school. If you’re worried about bullying, find out what the school’s rules are about it. Talk to their teacher and ask for advice. Also read What to do when your child is being bullied: 5 actions you can take for more information.
 
Article updated August 21, 2024.