By Cjay Harmer, Prevention Specialist
As a parent you never want to believe that your child has been targeted by a bully. Often your child will struggle to deal with the situation on their own, not wanting to call attention to it. But, there are some common signs that you can look for if you suspect your child is being bullied at school. If you think your child is being bullied, even if no symptoms are present, look in to it. Talk to your child. An open line of communication is the best weapon a parent can use to deal with this issue.
1.Fake illnesses on a regular basis
2.Sudden lack of interest in school
3.Drop in grades
4.Signs of physical abuse
5.Reluctant to talk about school
6.Withdrawn from family and friends
7.Depressed
8.Missing personal belongings
9.Change in eating and sleeping patterns
10.Has few or no friends at school
These signs do not guarantee that your child is being bullied, but these are indicators that something could be wrong at school. For additional information, contact Cjay Harmer at [email protected] or 815.338.7360.
Bullying Statistics
- 90% of 4th – 8th graders report being bullied
- Bullying often occurs in areas where there is minimal or no supervision (playgrounds, bathroom or cafeteria)
- Approximately 160,000 kids miss school every day because of bullying issues
- Bullying peeks in middle school
- About 56% of students have witnessed a bullying incident at school
Resources
Bullying in American Schools, by Anne Garrett
Bullying From Both Sides, by Walter Wiseman
Bullyingstatistics.org
