September 9, 2024 // by BCHPhysicians
With the new school year starting, it's a great time to focus on building a supportive environment for your child. Behavioral Health Consultant Kathryn Regan, MHC-LP, offers guidance on fostering kindness in your child and tackling bullying with a hopeful and constructive mindset.
Encouraging Your Child to be Kind:
Teaching your child the value of kindness and empathy can help prevent bullying behavior.
- Talk About Feelings and Empathy: Have regular conversations about how others might feel in different situations. For example, share a story about a character in a book who felt left out and ask your child how they think the character felt and what they would do to help. This helps your child understand and care about other people's emotions.
- Create a Safe Space: Let your child know they can always talk to you about their experiences and feelings. Regular, open conversations make them feel valued and heard.
- Teach Problem-Solving: Encourage your child to work with others to find solutions that benefit everyone. Praise them when they do, like saying, "Great job sharing the truck! It's awesome how you made sure both of you got a turn."
- Encourage Team Activities: Get your child involved in group activities or team sports that promote cooperation and friendship. These experiences help them build strong, positive relationships and social skills.
- Lead by Example: Children often copy adult behavior. When you show kindness and respect in your daily interactions, your child is likely to do the same.
Supporting Your Child If They Face Bullying:
If you think your child might be experiencing bullying, it's important to be supportive and understanding.
- Pay Attention to Changes: Notice any changes in your child's behavior or mood, like losing interest in activities they used to enjoy or not wanting to go to school.
- Be a Good Listener: Approach your child with warmth and let them know they can talk to you without fear of judgment. This will help them feel comfortable sharing their feelings.
- Reassure and Empower: Remind your child that they are not alone and that you are there to support them. Help them see their strengths and encourage them to seek help if needed.
- Teach Coping Skills: Introduce your child to positive activities like mindfulness, journaling, or spending time with friends. These can help them manage and cope with their feelings
- Encourage Professional Support: If your child is dealing with bullying, suggest they talk to teachers, coaches, or mental health professionals to build a strong support system.
By teaching empathy and coping skills, we can help children face social challenges with confidence and kindness. If your child is struggling or facing bullying, talk to your pediatrician about additional support. A therapist or behavioral health consultant can offer extra tools and guidance. To learn more about BCHP's Mental Health and Wellness division, please call us at 845-614-8481.