At first you may want to blame the other kids or the adult who brought the information to your attention. You need to be honest with yourself to determine the truth in the situation. This will be the first step to help your child have more positive interactions with other children.
- Do not accuse your child or label your child a “bully.” Instead talk about specific incidents.
- Arrange to have your child spend time with an older, responsible child. If you don’t know anybody, look into the CAP Program here at Thrive. It may help to find a mentor who can teach good social skills by example.
- Decide upon appropriate consequences for specific incidences. Yelling, hitting, or harsh punishment will only encourage your child to continue his own aggressive behavior.
- Discourage your child from spending time with friends who behave in aggressive ways.
- Enroll your child in a quality martial arts school. Visit the school before mentioning it to the child. A quality program will teach the child restraint, respect and self-control. Talk to the teacher in advance to let them know the concerns you have about your child’s behavior and discuss what you hope that your child will achieve in the class.
