Inland Lakes Schools Home of the Bulldogs

"Mean girls" have gotten a lot of attention lately. Research suggests girls' meanness may start well before Kindergarten. How can you prevent your child from manipulating and using peer pressure? Here are some ideas:
DISCIPLINE WITH LOVE. When you are angry with your child, continue making eye contact and showing concern.
BE FORGIVING. Don't lay guilt trips on your child. When she does something wrong, resolve it calmly and move on.
TALK WITH YOUR CHILD. Explain how her behavior affects others. Help her understand why being nice is important.

You don't want your child to be bullied... or to be a bully.
To prevent bullying behavior:
SET AN EXAMPLE. Be caring and non-aggressive. When angry, act calm.
PAY ATTENTION. Notice how your child behaves. Address problems immediately.
PROVIDE AN OUTLET. Channel high energy into sports and other activities.
MONITOR INFLUENCES. Don't let you child see violence on TV or elsewhere.
DISCIPLINE WELL. Enforce sensible limits WITHOUT FAIL.
ENCOURAGE VALUES. Say, "Treat others as you want to be treated."