Back-to-school and bullying support

Back-to-school season is here – a time of excitement and fresh starts, but it can also be a time of anxiety and concern about social challenges, especially for children and youth who may face bullying. As families get backpacks and lunch bags ready for a new school year, we are reminding parents to take some time to talk with their kids and keep those lines of communication open.

Thanks to Global News Morning for highlighting this important subject today in an interview with our CEO, Mary Beth Moellenkamp. Beth offered tips on how to recognize the signs that your child might be being bullied, and how parents can help. Watch the video: Navigating back-to-school dynamics and bullying support

Signs to look for:

   •  Emotional or behavioral signs (mood swings, irritability, withdrawal from family and friends, aggressive behaviour, anxious, refusing participation or low self-esteem)

   •  Physical signs (unexplained injuries, missing belongings, changes in eating or sleeping habits)

   •  Changes in social circles

What to do:

   •  Talk to the child with compassion and validate their feelings

   •  Speak with teachers and school staff so they can help create a safe environment at school

   •  Model positive behaviour and resolving conflicts respectfully

   •  Help children build confidence and self-esteem by encouraging them to express themselves

   •  Provide opportunities to meet like-minded peers to form a supportive friend group

   •  Limit negative online influences

For more resources on bullying, visit BullyingCanada.ca, or reach out to your local Youth Wellness Hub for support. Parents who are concerned about their child’s safety or well-being can call their local Children’s Aid Society for resources and assistance. We are here to help families build support networks and keep children and youth safe and well.