To prevent your child from being bullied and wronged in kindergarten, teach them these key lessons before they start school and practice repeatedly at home.

1. Reframe Authority Figures: Instead of telling your child they must always listen to the teacher, explain that the teacher is like a friend who will help them, just like a parent would. Encourage your child to tell the teacher if they need to use the bathroom, get a drink, need more food, have an accident, or if they’re being bullied. Remind them to raise their hand and call out if they need help.
2. Encourage Flexibility in Friendships: Let your child know that friendships can change and that it’s normal for friends to play with others. Emphasize that they can make many new friends and should not be upset if their current friends are playing with someone else. Encourage them to stay positive and open to meeting new people.
3. Encourage Active Listening: Teach your child to focus on the teacher by making eye contact when they are speaking. Explain that this shows respect and helps them pay better attention. Encourage them to make this a habit.
4. Emphasize Body Safety: Explain to your child the importance of protecting their body, especially sensitive areas like the face, belly button, and private parts. Make it clear that they should not let other children put anything into these areas and that they should not do it themselves.
5. Teach How to Express Concerns: Show your child how to clearly communicate any problems they encounter. Teach them to use the “five W’s”—who, what, when, where, and why—to explain the situation. This will help teachers and parents address the issue more effectively. Practice this communication at home to build their confidence.

When children encounter bullying in kindergarten, they need to be equipped with some effective coping strategies:

1. Say “No” Firmly: Teach your child to assert themselves by clearly saying “no” if someone is doing something they don’t like. Encourage them to use strong, clear words such as “don’t,” “stop,” or “no.” Asserting themselves is a crucial first step in addressing bullying.
2. Protect Themselves: If another child hits them, show your child how to protect themselves by gently pushing the aggressor’s hand away. Emphasize that they should not push back too hard to avoid escalating the situation.
3. Cry Out for Help: If they are unable to defend themselves due to the size or strength of the other children, remind your child that it’s okay to cry loudly. This will help get the attention of teachers who can step in and address the situation.
4. Seek Help: Encourage your child to approach their teacher and explain what’s happening. They should say something like, “Someone hit me and it really hurts.” If the problem persists and the teacher is unable to resolve it, they should let their parents know as soon as they get home.