Tip # 34. Bullying

Bullying.

A bully is a child who uses his words or his strength to intimidate another person.

My personal take on a bully is that, for some reason, he or she feels inadequate. In order to appear strong or worthy the bully uses inappropriate words or even his fists.

Using the MarnaKay tips should eliminate that feeling of inadequacy in your child. Being a bully will not feel right to your son but what if he is bullied? I have thought long and hard on this one. I do believe his self esteem will hold up. With your guidance, he can walk away and equate the bruising words to the other guy’s problem BUT what if it is a fighting situation? Then, he will need to defend himself.

No mother wants her son fighting but no mother wants her son taken advantage of and hurt either. This is a tough call, especially if it occurs on school grounds. A fist fight at school could come with consequences such as expulsion. Perhaps his friends will come to his assistance, there is safety in numbers.

However, if your son anticipates a problem at the bus stop or on the walk home from school he can always use Tip # 23, “No Questions Asked” and call his chosen driver to pick him up at school.

If later your son chooses to share his dilemma with you then it may be time to have a family meeting. Gather the appropriate members of the family around the table to discuss some pros and cons of how to handle the next situation, should it arise. Having valued input and making a plan will help alleviate your son’s fears.

There you go. Another lesson for today. Now, go and love your son in your own special way. Some days are long but, trust me, the years will just disappear.

Love,

MarnaKay

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