Six Warning Signs Your Child is Being Bullied

A child that's being bullied can show signs of insecurity in other areas of life; they may become fearful, angry, sad, or even depressed. If you have a gut feeling that your child is being harassed or picked on, there are many ways to help them adjust and become stronger so they learn how to stand up for themselves. Children often show early warning signs of bullying, but you do need to keep an eye on their behavior to find out if it's a problem in their lives. Amongst others, six warning signs that your child is being bullied include:

1. They seem afraid or anxious to go to school. Mornings are rough for most children, but you might find yours avoiding riding the bus, or taking a longer walk to school than necessary. Your child is simply experiencing fear, and the sooner you can identify their behavior, the easier it will be to make some changes.

2. They suddenly lose interest in school. The child who used to be eager to head off to classes now seems disinterested and talks less about their day. They may seem distracted or distant when you talk about school, or might change the subject quickly. Bullying can often lead to a damaged self-esteem; these children will blame themselves and have difficulty standing up for themselves.

3. They exhibit eating and appetite inconsistencies. Many children will lose their appetite, or engage in overeating in an effort to soothe themselves. If they don't have healthier alternatives to cope, this may even develop into an eating disorder.

4. They have trouble sleeping. Many children will experience nightmares, insomnia, or even sleepwalking. These are all indicators of anxiety and insecurity, and bullying at school can often be a trigger point.

5. They have unexplained bruises, cuts, or scars. Some children will hide the fact they are being bullied out of shame, and may brush off any marks from fights as simply 'falling down' or knocking into something.

6. They have frequent headaches, fall sick easily, and just 'feel ill.' These symptoms may be very real, but can also be used as a mask to avoid going to school in the first place. Learning why and how the child is getting sick can help identify the real problem.

The school years can be tough, and every parent knows that socializing and interacting with classmates can take time for adjustment. If your child is changing schools or having difficulty with keeping up with classes, they can be especially vulnerable to bullying. You can build up a sense of trust and security for your child by being involved. Parents who take the time to talk with their children after school, provide a safe and nurturing environment, and encourage open communication can help build a healthy self-esteem and unparalleled confidence from the start!