Bullying | ExpatWoman.com
 

Bullying

49
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 November 2011 - 16:56

Am concerned that my child may be being bullied - not directly, but indirectly, as in being excluded from a group of friends in the neighbourhood. It has happened twice - suddenly the other children ignore him. It's very upsetting, particularly as they have all been friends for years. I'm not sure whether to speak to the parents or the children (my child has not spoken to me about it, despite gentle 'prompting' on my part). Any advice? My child does not lack confidence, is popular, etc (though is a year younger than the others, so this may be the point of 'difference' that's being used as the basis for the exclusion) - it seems to me to be more a reflection of the feelings/insecurities of one of the other children than anything else, though I could be wrong. Any advice gratefully received! Thank you.

146
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 November 2011 - 17:37
Maybe your LO should find new friends too? Surely there's other kids in the neighborhood she could hang out with? Kids always include/exclude and as other posters have said as long as it doesn't harm your child just let it run its course. If they're being mean and really affecting her self esteem then I would consider interfering.
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 November 2011 - 17:25
I agree that interfering would be a very bad idea. Talking to the parents might be making a mountain out of a mole hill. It also depends on the age of your child as to whether this is something to really worry about. As long as your child is happy and doesn't seem down. there are other ways you can make your child feel better, like spending some quality time (i'm sure you do already). It is a very normal part of growing up but i understand that it is very very painful to witness. Helen
3220
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 08 November 2011 - 17:15
These things are part of growing up. Being excluded or ignored from a group is not really bullying. I wouldnt interfere. Let it run its course. In the meantime your child can make new friends if the old ones isnt that interested in him anymore. I remember being excluded from a group of friends as a child too when I was little as one of the girl made up stories about me (which turned out to stem from jealousy). It was painful to go through but I made new friends and grew as a person. If my parents interfered I would of been mortified (and probably teased too).
 
 

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