Bullying in Toddlers
Toddlers are active and impulsive, and they’re going to have little fights and wrestling matches that occasionally get out of hand. This play-related conflict can actually benefit young children because it teaches them how to compromise, negotiate and forgive.
On the other hand, bullying, whether physical or emotional, damages kids’ self-esteem. Even bullying between toddlers can cause hurt feelings, fear and anxiety. Being picked on, pushed around and not allowed to play with the group is not acceptable at any age.
We’re here to help
At Westchester Health Pediatrics, we want you to know that we care about what your toddler is going through, as well as about his/her health. Please come in with your child to talk with us if he/she is being bullied, or if you suspect that he/she is. Together, we will find solutions for how to stop the bullying so that your child can be healthy, happy and safe.
Is your toddler being bullied?
Some signs that may indicate your child is being bullied are if he/she:
- Loved daycare or preschool but now doesn’t want to go
- Complains of stomachaches or headaches before being dropped off at a playdate, daycare or preschool
- No longer wants to play with a child he/she once liked
- Repeatedly tells you a certain kid is being mean to him/her
- Suddenly becomes withdrawn, anxious or clingy
- Has unexplained boo-boos. Toddlers often get bumps and bruises when they play, but if your child seems to have more than normal or can’t tell you how he/she got hurt, you should be concerned.
What you can do to stop the bullying
1) Role-play
Pretend you’re the bully and encourage your child to tell you in a loud voice to “Knock it off!” or “Stop that!” and walk away. Then reverse the roles.
2) Tell your child to ignore the bully
Often if you don’t give a bully attention, he/she will eventually stop.
3) Encourage your child to stick with friends
Bullies try to isolate certain kids so they can pick on them. As the saying goes, there’s safety in numbers. If your child doesn’t have many friends, help him/her make some new ones through play-dates or activities he/she is interested in.
4) Teach your child to tell an adult
The best way for your child to stay safe is to tell a grown-up what’s happening. If you are not there when the bullying is taking place, your child should go to the teacher, group leader or parent-in-charge.
When your child’s the bully
1) Show your disapproval
The instant you see your toddler start to hit another child, intervene as quickly as possible and tell him/her loudly and firmly, “No! We do not hit.”
2) Remove your child from the situation
Calmly take your child to a different place and firmly explain that hitting or biting is not allowed, ever.
3) Block the abusive behavior
If you see your child about to hit or bite, catch his/her hand in midair or place your hand over your child’s mouth.
4) Apologize for your child’s actions
If your toddler hits or bites a playmate, turn your attention to the victim. Check to see if the child is okay, and make sure your child hears you apologize and that you are very upset with his/her behavior. Apologize to the other parent who might be angry but hopefully can see that you’re working on stopping this unacceptable behavior in your child.
5) Encourage your child to use words, not fists, when angry
Help your toddler use language and gestures to communicate. Strongly encourage him/her to say simple words like “mad” when he/she is frustrated. If you reward your child’s efforts to talk, he/she will ultimately learn that words are a more effective and socially acceptable way to communicate than violence.
For our advice, tips and guidance on raising infants and toddlers, CLICK HERE.
Please contact us to discuss any of these topics. Whenever, wherever you need us, we’re here for you.