Bullying in Preschool, Photo by Clarity
Bullying is an issue in many daycare center and preschool environments. One aspect of daycare jobs includes keeping children safe and behavioral issues in check. In a part 3 of this interview, Shannon Spence, owner of Tutor Doctor of Denver, describes the problem of bullies in daycare centers and explains how parents can handle the situation.
OwnADaycare: What can a concerned parent do about bullying?
Shannon Spence: As a parent, sometimes it’s hard to determine if your child is overreacting to a normal preschool situation or whether the situation has gotten out of control. Let’s face it young children are impulsive and active so classroom battles are an everyday occurrence. Allowing children to deal with conflicts is an important learning tool at this age so talk through scenarios with your child and give them suggestions on how to handle them.
If however, your child is complaining of stomachaches, seems anxious about school, says they don’t like school anymore or repeatedly complains about a certain child that is being “mean” to them then some more investigation is needed. A good first step is to visit the classroom. Child care providers should have an open door policy and encourage parents to observe and volunteer in the classroom. Spending some time in the classroom is a good opportunity to see your child in the school environment. You can see for yourself and better understand if your child is being oversensitive or if in fact there are some issues.
Clearly if your child comes home with an unknown bruise, bite mark or other physical signs of bullying, a parent needs to talk with the teachers as soon as possible. Speaking with the teachers during pick up or drop off is difficult so schedule a formal meeting with them. If the bullying continues and the parent is not getting support from the teacher then they need to bring it to the attention of the school’s administrator.
Most preschools and daycare facilities have a “three strikes, you’re out” policy. So if a child is repeatedly inflicting harm on other children careful consideration should be taken to possibly remove them from the school. If this does not happen and the bullying continues then you may have to remove your child from the school and look for another program. Remember you are the only advocate your child has so if you feel that they are being bullied or taken advantage of you need to do everything in your power to protect them.
Shannon Spence is a former preschool teacher, mother of two and owns and runs a local Tutor Doctor business, with her husband Rob. She has seen bullying first hand in the preschool environment and has some insight into how to deal with the situation.
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