Is Your Child Vulnerable?
All children are vulnerable to bullying, but special needs children are more vulnerable than so-called “normal” kids. The very fact that a special needs child has a disability makes him vulnerable to attack. It is a known fact that bullies seek out targets that are vulnerable. Bullies look for kids who won't defend themselves and who won't fight back. Special needs kids often fit this description; and many kids with severe special needs or serious social deficits would be unable to fight back even if they wanted to.
Even kids with mild disabilities experience a higher rate of bullying. These kids might have behaviors considered socially awkward or have trouble grasping the subtle details of kid culture (like fashion trends or patterns of speech) that gain acceptance from peers. Let's face it, even typical kids have trouble gaining acceptance from their peers. For a special needs kid, the equation gets much more complicated. But there are several things you can do to help your special needs child.
Clearly Convey Your Expectations
Let your child's teachers, support team, and all school personnel know that you are aware of the additional risk your child faces in regard to bullying. Let them know that you will be actively monitoring the situation and that you want to be informed immediately of any bullying incidents involving your child.
Schedule a Special IEP or Section 504 Meeting
Express your desire to include anti-bullying education and social-skills training in your child's IEP. By requesting these things your child will be exposed to additional curriculum appropriate for her disability.
Fact
Children who have a physical or learning disability are at an increased risk for being involved in bullying situations. A 1991 study conducted by S. Ziegler and M. Rosenstein-Manner found that 38 percent of students identified as special education students were bullied.
Talk to Your Child about Bullies
Using language that makes sense to your child, define exactly what constitutes bullying behavior. You will have to clearly spell it out. Some special needs kids are so accustomed to subtle forms of harassment that they fail to recognize exactly what bullying behavior is and don't realize it is wrong.
Role Play with Your Child
Tell your child what she should say when someone is unkind or hurtful. Be specific; tell her to say, “Stop saying that!” “I don't like it when you do that.” or “Leave me alone!” Encourage her to tell you right away when someone is mean or hurtful.
Be Aware
Be aware of what is happening at school, on the bus, and in any special activities that your child participates in. Schedule regular meetings with all adults involved in your child's care. The meetings should be more frequent for those kids with severe disabilities who may not be able to speak for themselves. Consider volunteering — it's a great way to get an inside look at what your child experiences at school.
Watch for Changes in Your Child's Behavior
If you notice any signs of anxiety, depression, or school avoidance, step up your supervision and participation in your child's academic and outside activities. Talk with your child and ask her support team to talk with her as well. You will need to be vigilant and intervene quickly should a problem arise.
