What do you do when the bully lives next door to you? My daughter changes from an angel in the classroom to a terror at home. Why? What do I do? Listen to hear Dr. Leman answer with his usual wit and wisdom.
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Question #1: Jenni- Audio Question
My son has been bullied by neighborhood kid. I actually saw and heard it happen. What should I do now?
Dr Leman’s answer:
The boy called your son a sissy. Is he a sissy?
If your kids are at all different, WATCH OUT! Sometimes their behavior can invite bullying.
Remember you are the parent, do something about it!
1. Walk the kid home.
2. Talk to the parent about what happened.
3. If it is happening at school, talk to the teacher or principal.
Question #2: From: Kate
Subject: Perfect at school/Challenging at home
My daughter is an ideal student. Her teachers always rave about how kind she is, what a great listener she is, and how enthusiastic she is about learning. As a teacher and mom, this makes me so proud. But then we get into the car each afternoon, and she changes. Argues/whines over everything, is extremely hyper, talks back. Just wondering if you have any advice or thoughts on such differing behavior at school/home. Thanks!
Dr Leman’s Answer:
This indicates that the environment at school is good:
- There is authority
- Things are predictable.
At home, the environment is not so good for her:
- Authoritarian
- You tell her what to do
- You ask too many questions of her
She is thinking, “I’m me, and I’m not gonna be who you think I ought to be.”
Here is my suggestion:
- Be silent when you pick her up from school.
- Don’t ask questions.
- Ask her opinion on things.
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