Guidance Strategies to Prevent and Address Preschool Bullying

by Jill M. Raisor and Stacey D. Thompson

In the media, bullying is cited as one of the challenges many children face. With early
intervention some bullying behavior can be reduced or possibly even prevented. This article
shows an approach involving children, educators, and families working together to address
bullying among children. In many instances bullying when understood, can be prevented by
teaching. A planned approach to prevention and intervention, can build children's self-regulation
skills and empower bystanders to act when witnessing bullying behavior - ultimately decrease
bullying, along with positive relationships with families. Bullying behavior is not acceptable at
any age an aggressive behavior evolves into bullying when it is a negative action, implemented
and repeated time and time again. Encouraging adults to open the lines of communication with
children by discussing bullying is a great starting point. Parents and teachers should discuss and
define bullying and what it looks like to children. Reading stories about bullying and discussing
them with the children is a great way for children to learn about bullying. Early childhood is an
optimal time for knowledgeable, caring adults to implement prosocial strategies that identify and
reduce bullying behaviors. For preschoolers, a combination of developmental and environmental
factors may play a role in using aggressive behavior that can lead to bullying. Three distinct
types of aggression frequently occur in the preschool years: physical, instrumental, and
relational. Physical aggression, many preschool are learning socialization skills for the first time
and are not familiar with sharing toys, space, and with other children and this can result in
physical aggression such as hitting, pinching, pushing, and kicking. Instrumental aggression,
behaviors such as hitting, pushing, and grabbing to get a desired toy or snack are common in
preschoolers. Relational aggression, 4 and 5 year olds engaging in exclusionary interactions. All

three types of aggression used repeatedly can be identified as bullying. There are five steps
children go through when processing information about their social world, decoding social cues,
interpreting, considering, evaluating an optimal response, and response. Teachers and other
adults need to address and help children learn how to use acceptable, positive behaviors. If these
types of behaviors are not addressed in early childhood they are likely to continue and result in
antisocial behaviors. Activities such as creating a scenario that consists of emotional responses
that allow children to document informed guesses about what might happen next is a great way
for children to learn ways to stop bullying behaviors. Caring and supporting children who are
bullied. adults can model behavior to support children who are bullied which in turn kids
children assertive phrases that empower them to stand up for themselves. Positive guidance is
important to teach young children how to make socially responsible choices. Setting boundaries,
being consistent in addressing bullying behavior, and modeling kindness are something
educators and families should do. As a teacher it is our responsibility to models socially
appropriate behaviors and guide children along the journey to becoming responsible citizens and
help prevent bullying.