Get tips on bully-proofing your child.

Everyone knows who the bullies are at school: they’re the ones who tease, push, hurt, or even exclude other children. It’s a problem that’s been around since the beginning of time – but it’s starting to receive more attention now. One statistic says that one in four kids report being bullied at school.

I read a study a while back that asked about how many bedwetting children had problems with bullies (either at school or in the neighborhood). Seems like it happens pretty often – but more so with children who are also incontinent during the day.

To make bullying an even harder problem to lick, many kids are either scared or embarrassed to tell an adult about being bullied. When they do tell, the reactions they get could be pretty varied. Some adults say the kids should work it out in their own way.

Others go to the other end of the spectrum and press criminal charges. Once you’re dealing with a bullying problem, things get complicated quickly.

Especially with a child who’s struggling with bedwetting or daytime enuresis, bully prevention may be the key. It’s one more way you can help your child cope with dignity and hope until that magical “I’ve been dry for a month!” happens.

Here are five tips on bully-proofing your child:

1. Make sure to keep the lines of communication open. If your child is having a problem with a bully, it’s really important for him or her to feel comfortable talking with you about it.
2. A bully usually won’t go after kids in a group. Encourage your child to reach out to other kids who may not have friends. Talk to your kids about being friendly, even with kids who have been left out. Don’t just talk about it, demonstrate this compassion and empathy. People are always happier and safer when they’ve got friends watching out for them.
3. Karate or other self-defense classes can be very helpful. My son takes karate. At first I thought, “OK, another testosterone-driven activity.” But I’ve been completely impressed by his Sensei. He stresses self-control and confidence just as much as getting the kicks and blocks done right. He always says they should use common sense before self-defense, too.
4. Limit your child’s TV watching. (Easier said than done?) Just watch for one day, and you might be shocked at how many times you’ll see cruel, aggressive, or violent behavior – even on kid shows.
5. Stay in touch with your child’s school. You don’t need to tell them about your child’s enuresis – but make your face familiar there. It doesn’t take much contact to make yourself known. (And of course, be friendly!)