SPOT SIGNS OF BULLYING
BULLYING is an issue that can affect all children in schools across the Midlands and North, but it may surprise your readers to know that, according to the Anti-Bullying Alliance, children in care are four times more likely to be bullied in secondary school.
That’s why at Five Rivers Child Care, as part of Anti-Bullying Week which runs until November 15, we want to help parents and carers recognise some of the warning signs that suggest a child could be being bullied.
It’s normal for children to complain about going back to school after the holidays, but it’s unusual for a child that enjoys school to suddenly become less willing to attend.
If you’re finding that your child is becoming increasingly reluctant to go to school each morning, and there is no other explanation for this change, it’s possible they could be experiencing problems with bullying.
If your child’s belongings are damaged or start to go missing and they can’t explain why, this could be a sign that they’re being targeted by another child.
In extreme circumstances, children can experience physical bullying and violence, so if you notice unexplained bruising, cuts and other marks, it could mean that a child is being bullied and is reluctant to tell anyone.
Being bullied can increase anxiety and distract a child, and this can be spotted in their schoolwork.
If grades suddenly drop or schoolwork isn’t being completed, speak with them to find out why.
Cyber bullying is sometimes harder to spot but can be the most difficult form of bullying, with children feeling like there’s no escape from it.
It’s important to talk to your child about how to be safe online, and how to get support if they start to experience difficulty or upset.
At Five Rivers, we feel it’s essential for families to have conversations with their children about bullying and ensure they’re happy at school, as well as at home.
Hopefully this gives your readers some useful tips on how to spot signs of bullying and make sure their child feels safe whilst at school.
For more advice on physical and online bullying, visit the National Bullying Helpline and The Cyber Smile Foundation.
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Here are steps we can all take:
1. Be kind – it sounds trivial but every day is an opportunity to show kindness to someone. Thank the shop worker, give way in traffic, open the door, smile.
2. Look out for people who are on their own or new to the area. A compliment or a chat can make someone’s day.
3. Avoid liking or sharing posts that spread negativity.
Social media is great for connecting us with others but far too often is used to hurt, humiliate or spread anger.
Make a conscious effort to only build others up and stop following people that spread hate.
4. Be a positive role model.
If you are quick to put other people down or laugh at others who are different, it’s likely you are having a negative influence on those around you.
5. Be there for the children and teenagers in your life. These are not easy times to be growing up in.
Make sure they know you are always there for them, and create time together when they can share what’s on their mind.
A walk, a trip to the cinema or their favourite restaurant, a car journey – these are all good times to check in.
Finally, if you or someone you know needs help with bullying visit www. kidscape.org.uk team Revitalise and run to give disabled people and carers access to much-needed breaks.
So much of life is other people. And disability can so often get in the way of having the energy and opportunity to create and look after those relationships which matter so much.
By running for Revitalise you’ll be helping us to create revitalising holidays for those who need it most across the UK, and help us to achieve a future where disabled people can access essential breaks filled with fun, new experiences, fresh faces – and the security of 24-hour nurse-led care in environments that are fully accessible.
Those not successful in the ballot can still apply for a guaranteed place with Revitalise in the 2020 Marathon by visiting revitalise.org.uk/events/ london-marathon-2020/
There is an entry fee of £100 and we ask that you pledge to raise £1,750. In return you will get a fundraising pack, plenty of help and support throughout your training, loud and enthusiastic cheers from our team during the race, and an invitation to our postrace reception where you can enjoy food and drink, team photos and a much-needed free massage.
Find out more about Revitalise and the ways you can support us by emailing me at aphilip@revitalise.org.uk, or calling 0207 288 6896.