Child Psychologist talks about how parents can help children deal with bullying

The start of a new school year can be an anxious time. One of the biggest stresses is bullies.

Child psychologist Nikki Sulaica from Henry Ford Hospital talked to Action News about bullying in school and how parents can help children deal with it.

What are the signs that indicate a child is being bullied?

Red flags include a child being more aggressive or anxious,  avoidance of wanting to go to school and more physical complaints like a headache or a stomach pain.  Some of the behaviors may be natural in the beginning of the year but when a pattern develops it could mean the child is being bullied.  If you notice any of the symptoms, do not ignore it.

What can you do for your child?

Parents should talk with their children and ask a lot of questions. Knowing the  facts like who, what, when, where and why puts  parents in a better position to go to the school to get help.   They can also model to their children how to solve a problem.

Get help from the school and work with the school to come up with the solution.  Schools have programs in place.

What are the signs that indicate a child is a bully?

Bullies can go through a lot of stress, too. It is hard for parents to recognize if their child is the bully because a lot of the symptoms are the same with the kids who are being bullied.  If your child is not having play dates, having negative peer interactions and getting into trouble at school often,  there is a chance that your child is experiencing trouble interacting socially.  If you suspect your child is bullying it is important to go to the school and see what they have seen and find out why the aggression is coming out.