There’s no schoolyard or student campus without an angry individual who strives to annoy someone on that day. This is usually called a bully and he’s usually accompanied by one or two like-minded friends. If you want the best for your kid, you need to teach him/her self-defense against bullies. This might not sound like an easy task, but it’s necessary as a way of coping with various life situations.
Also, keep in mind that ignoring the situation altogether, especially if the kid says that he’s bullied, won’t help. It’s important to take some time and invest in the protection and wellbeing of your child. Here are a few tips and tricks your loved one can use.
Pay Attention to Body Language
Bullies usually engage vulnerable kids who don’t project confidence. It’s easier to attack a more fragile target than a stronger one and the fact that you’re more vulnerable is telegraphed using your body language. If your kid walks around looking down, hunched shoulders, and try to get away from everyone, this is a signal that he/she is an easy target for bullies.
On the other hand, having a more relaxed walk, looking around, keeping the shoulders back, and showing your chest can pay dividends. By doing so, your kid projects more confidence and it protects him against bullies in the schoolyard.
Use a Confident Voice
Similar to body language, the voice can also show signals of weakness or confidence. If a kid speaks excessively quietly most of the time, he or she is probably bullied. On the other hand, using a strong and confident voice might keep bullies at a distance. Your kid doesn’t need to shout all the time and at everyone. It’s just trying to assert himself and project more confidence while speaking. This habit can be taught and learned quickly by most kids.
Stick with a Group
Most bullies also target individuals who usually walk around alone. What’s the solution? Just stick to a group. Travel in groups of at least two people to protect yourself. It’s harder to break a larger group of people, so you have more confidence when walking around. This is true both for girls and boys. On top of that, sticking to a group will also add confidence to other group members, not only your kid.
Take a Self-defense Class
Taking your kid to a self-defense class is also highly recommended. Kids naturally pick up things quicker and easier and learning how to defend themselves can help them greatly in life. Some proven combat sports such as Krav Maga or Taekwondo can go a long way when it comes to boosting your child’s confidence.
It’s not easy to deal with bullies, but your kid cannot remain a passive victim either. You need to help your child develop more self-confidence and learn a few essential self-defense skills that will help him/her stand up to bullies. Contact one of our trained martial artists today and learn how your kid can use Krav Maga and physical training to get out of difficult situations.
