Child Protection Month: Working together to end violence against children
There are warning signs if a child is being bullied.
The month of May is observed as Child Protection Month, with this year’s theme: Working Together to End Violence Against Children.
The campaign is observed at a critical time, as many children continue to experience abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violence in homes, communities, online spaces, and at school.
Spot the warning signs that a child or teen is being bullied:
* If a child is being bullied, it may not be obvious to a parent or teacher. For example, most bullying occurs away from adults, when children are alone at school or on their way home from school.
* Bullies tend to be adept at hiding their behaviour from adults, and bullying victims will often cover up evidence because of a sense of shame at being victimised.
* Your child appears worried, angry, and moody.
* Your child may experience nightmares more frequently.
* Physical complaints increase, and your child avoids explaining physical injuries.
* Withdrawal from friends and activities that they used to enjoy.
Take steps to stop bullying:
* Talk to children about bullying.
* Merely talking about the problem can be a huge stress reliever for someone who is being bullied.
* Be supportive and listen to a child’s feelings without judgment, criticism, or blame.
* Find help for a child who is afraid of a bully.
* Make sure that other teachers, friends, and counsellors know that the child is being bullied.
* No child should have to deal with bullying alone.
* Report the incidents to the relevant authorities.
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