Do you know if your child is being bullied?

Bullying! Yes, bullying is still very much alive and well among our children, and in our schools, doing so much more damage than most people realise. Sadly, most parents are not even aware their children are being bullied until it’s too late.

At least 43% of children are bullied on a daily basis, ranging from verbal, physical and even sexual bullying.

Most children don’t report it because they are scared it will only get worse, or they will not be taken seriously. Children are often too embarrassed to admit they are being bullied, and therefore also do not report the problems.

Research indicates children are bullied because of their weight, clothing styles, disabilities, sexual orientation and low income backgrounds. As a result of being bullied, many tend to self-harm, skip school and even run away from home.

In the worst case scenarios, some children take their own lives, just to put an end to the suffering.

Here are the top five signs you should look out for if you suspect your child is being bullied.

1. Unexplained physical bruises.
2. They refuse to go to school.
3. Sudden changes in their personality or behaviour.
4. Changes in their sleep patterns, or regular nightmares.
5. Sudden changes in their eating habits.

Advice to parents:

Parents should be more involved and aware of what is going on in their children’s lives.

Foster a relationship with your child, and help them understand it is okay to talk about it.

It is important for your child to feel safe enough to confide in you.

Address the issues sooner, rather than later. As a parent, you’re better off safe than sorry. Pay careful attention to them, because actions speak louder than words.

“It is happening and children should definitely report this. We have also noticed that there is a lack of parental involvement regarding this issue, both from the parents of the victim and that of the bully. In many cases the parents do not see this as a problem so they leave it at that. We do how ever have programs in place in certain schools, with groups who help with these issues. If a child is being bullied they should not keep quiet, they must contact the South African Child Care Line and report the problem,” said Nobuntu Gamede, from the Child Welfare Newcastle.

If you are a victim of bullying, you can contact the South African child care toll free line on 080 005 5555.