Bullying can cause many young people to feel isolated, worthless or insecure. Over time, repeated bullying may cause a child serious, lasting issues as their confidence and self-esteem diminishes.
A recent study by The Anti-Bullying Alliance determined that both teachers and students agree that bullying is a choice. Just like choosing to bully, people can instead decide to respect one another in school, in their homes and in their communities, where online or face-to-face.
It’s also important that young people look out for one another and speak up when they experience or see any signs of bullying. Here’s our guide for foster parents around dealing with bullying.
What are some of the signs of bullying?
Although every child reacts differently to bullying, there are some signs foster parents should look out for:
- Visible bruising
- Broken or missing possessions
- The child has become withdrawn
- Change in eating habits
- Change in behaviour
- Sleeping badly
- Worrying about going to school
- A decline in academic performance
What can foster parents do if they think a child is being bullied?
It’s not easy for any foster parent when they suspect their foster child is being bullied. However, it is important that you deal with it in the appropriate way to help resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
Here are some of the things you can do if your child tells you they are being bullied:
- Listen without getting angry or upset
- Thank them for being brave and confiding in you
- Ask what your child would like you to do now – don’t exclude them from the conversation
- Reassure your child that it isn’t their fault
- Don’t let the bullying dominate their life – help your child develop skills in new areas
- If it is online bullying, gather evidence and keep your child offline until everything is resolved
- Report the bullying to the appropriate adult in the place where they are being bullied
- Try and rebuild your child’s self-esteem by doing things they enjoy
Online Safety
With some of our children spending more time online than they do in the classroom, it is essential that they are reminded of some of these basic safety tips that can keep them safe when using the internet:
- If you see bullying report it and don’t join in
- If the bullying persists, speak to a responsible adult who can take it further
- Don’t post any personal information online
- Never give out your passwords
- Don’t befriend people you don’t know
- Don’t meet up with people you meet online – speak to your parent/carer if people suggest you do
- Remember that not everyone online is who they say they are
There’s lots of great resources on the Anti-Bullying Alliance’s website to support parents, teachers and children with bullying.
Want to learn more about supporting children in foster care? Discover how you could help by joining Clifford House.