Talk to your child about school and friends. Ask your child how he likes to be treated and how he should treat other people. Explain to him the different ways that bullying can impact other children. Playacting can help children begin to build empathy for others.
Ask your child questions about how specific actions would make her feel. For example, ask her how she would feel if no one would play with her. Ask her how she would feel if another student hit her.
Read books to your child about bullying. Some good options, according to early childhood experts, include "Shrinking Violet" by Cari Best, "Myrtle" by Tracey Campbell Pearson and "Have You Filled A Bucket Today?" by Carol McCloud.
Tell your child you are always there to help if something bad is happening at school or if he sees something that upsets him. If you suspect your child is being bullied, let your child know you cannot help him if you don't know what is happening.
Keep the lines of communication open and listen to your child talk about preschool. If your child seems scared or reluctant to go to school, has unexplained injuries or suddenly becomes depressed, ask her if there is something happening at school.
Listen to your child if he is accused of being a bully. Attempt to find out what is making him act this way and look for possible reasons for the behavior, including hunger, lack of sleep or changes at home.
Remain calm, no matter what your child tells you or what is being discussed. If you overreact, your child could either stop talking or feel like she has done something wrong.