5 Ways to Encourage a Child Who is Battling the School Bully

As many as one in four kids is bullied, a frightening childhood experience that can last well into adulthood. Gregory B. Watkins of www.bigbillandbuddies.com reveals how to tell if your child has been bullied, and five ways to help.

(PRWEB) December 13, 2004 -- Is your child afraid to go to the lunchroom, bathroom, or playground because of a bully? Is his schoolwork or attendance suffering because he is worried about being picked on?

Studies show that one in four kids is bullied. For years, bullying was treated as an unavoidable rite of passage. But recent research reveals that the effects of bullying can last well into adulthood; thats why its crucial to find out if your child is being bullied.

says Gregory B. Watkins, author of A Big Beaked Big Bellied Bird Named Bill

Kids dont always come out and tell their parents they are afraid. Signs of being bullied include tummy aches, nightmares, reluctance to go to school and loss of confidence," says Gregory B. Watkins, author of A Big Beaked Big Bellied Bird Named Bill" ($13.95, www.bigbillandbuddies.com). If your child displays these signals, its time you intervene."

The father of four and the youngest of eight children, Watkins passionately educates children about sticking up for the little guy. The former Vietnam Marine wrote A Big Beaked Big Bellied Bird Named Bill," the first in a series, to teach children individuality and acceptance.

Here Watkins shares five ways to pump up your childs spirit when theyve been pestered by a bully:

1. Talk it over. Your child may be embarrassed or scared and may try to deny it. Dont give up. It may take five or more sessions" to find the heart of the problem.

2. Make it clear it is not their fault. Point out that many bullies are just trying to show off or get attention.

3. Offer ideas. If your child is getting bullied because of poor social skills, help by teaching them better social skills.

4. Role play. See how your child acts around other kids and help your child work out acceptable responses.

5. Instill pride. Help them accept who they are and be proud of it. A confident child is less likely to be bullied.

Dont let a bully kill your childs confidence. Stay in-the-know about whats going on in your childrens lives and always be ready to help them feel good about themselves.

Want to know more about how to make a difference in your childs life? Get the FREE report 6 Steps to Turn that Bully into Your Friend" at www.bigbillandbuddies.com.

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