It’s a tough realization for any parent that their child may be at fault for a difficult situation. As parents, we want to assume the best in our child. It can be tough but necessary to ask the question: “What do I do if my child is bullying others?”
Proverbs 22:6 tells us that as parents, it is our job to train a child in the way he should go. We are responsible for teaching them right and wrong and leading them by example. But don’t beat yourself up over your child’s mistakes– the situation is never hopeless. Remember that kids are learning daily, so take this as an opportunity for teaching. As tough as it can be, if your child is not yet a believer, you cannot always expect them to act like one.
Here are a few tips for handling this situation:
- Help your child understand why what they did was wrong. Let them know that you are aware of what’s happening and talk with them about the reasons behind the bullying. Convey that while you do not approve, you still love them just the same.
- Talk with your child about how they are going to change the situation. Help set tangible goals and look for other outlets for their frustration or insecurities.
- Support your child with Scripture. A few helpful topics include loving others as yourself (Mark 12:31), loving like Christ (1 John 4:7-10), setting an example (1 Timothy 4:12), or casting your burdens on the Lord (1 Peter 5:7).
- Be in constant prayer. Pray for your own leadership and a changed heart for your child. Regardless of how things seem to be going, as parents it is constantly our job to lift up our children in prayer.
How else would you help your child or a child in your ministry who is bullying others? What else does Scripture say about this topic? Share with us!