Understanding School-Age Bullying: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers
Bullying can occur during the school-age years, typically between ages 5 and 12, as children spend more time in group settings and peer interactions. While bullying is not acceptable behavior, it is a challenge many families and child care programs may encounter.
At Golden City CDC, Inc., we are committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all children in our care. Understanding what bullying looks like, why it happens, and how our Child Care Center responds can help families support their children effectively.
What Is School-Age Bullying?
Bullying is repeated behavior intended to hurt, intimidate, or exclude another child. It can take several forms, including:
Physical bullying (hitting, pushing, damaging belongings)
Verbal bullying (name-calling, teasing, threats)
Social bullying (spreading rumors, exclusion, embarrassment)
Cyberbullying (hurtful messages or posts online)
Bullying often involves a power imbalance, where one child feels unable to defend themselves.
Why Bullying Happens
Children may engage in bullying for a variety of reasons. Understanding these factors helps adults respond with guidance and support.
1. Difficulty Managing Emotions
Some children struggle with anger, frustration, or jealousy and may act out toward others.
2. Desire for Control or Attention
Bullying can be a way for a child to feel powerful or noticed, especially if they lack positive attention.
3. Peer Influence
Children may copy behaviors they see in peers or attempt to fit in with a group.
4. Developing Social Skills
Some children are still learning empathy, problem-solving, and respectful communication.
5. Stress or Life Changes
Challenges at home or school, academic pressure, or major transitions can sometimes contribute to negative behavior.
How Golden City CDC Addresses Bullying
As a licensed Child Care Center, Golden City CDC takes bullying concerns seriously and uses age-appropriate, proactive strategies to promote safety and respect.
Immediate Support
When bullying is observed or reported, staff may:
Ensure the safety of all children involved
Separate children if necessary
Listen calmly and respectfully
Document the incident
Communicate with families when appropriate
Teaching, Not Shaming
Rather than focusing only on punishment, caregivers emphasize:
Teaching empathy and accountability
Helping children understand how their actions affect others
Encouraging positive behavior and better choices
Monitoring and Prevention
Our staff works to:
Identify patterns or repeated behaviors
Increase supervision in higher-risk areas
Promote kindness, inclusion, and respect
Set clear expectations for appropriate behavior
Social-Emotional Learning
School-age programming may include support for:
Respectful communication
Problem-solving skills
Emotional regulation
Standing up for oneself and others in safe ways
How Parents Can Support Their Child
Families play an important role in preventing and addressing bullying.
Parents can help by:
Encouraging open conversations (“Tell me about your day”)
Taking concerns seriously and listening without judgment
Modeling empathy and respectful behavior at home
Practicing assertive communication and confidence-building skills
Working collaboratively with child care staff
If your child is experiencing bullying, reassure them that it is not their fault and that trusted adults are there to help.
Is Bullying a Long-Term Issue?
With early intervention, guidance, and consistency, bullying can often be reduced or stopped. As children grow and develop:
Stronger social skills
Emotional awareness
Empathy
Conflict-resolution abilities
They become better equipped to form healthy, positive relationships.
Need More Support or Resources?
For more information on how Golden City CDC, Inc., a licensed Child Care Center, supports children and families, please visit:
https://www.goldencitycdc.com/