My child is quite small in size and now I am starting to think that bigger children could be picking on him at school. I have ever experienced bullying myself and I really do not want my child to go through the same. What advise do you give me?

- Jean Bosco, Niboye Dear Jean Bosco,Bullying is a common problem in many school situations. If indeed you think your child is being bullied then you should not hesitate to follow this up. First of you all you need to talk to your child and let them know that you think something is wrong. It is important not to also ‘bully’ him to tell you the truth. Instead, you have to create a level of trust first. Make sure that your child understands that this situation calls for an adult’s intervention if it is to improve. Contact the school authorities and find out what their policy on bullying is. They should promise that the child can be safe even after reporting a case of bullying. Don’t go charging into the school demanding justice for your son. This can only embarrass him and probably make the situation worse. Set up a meeting with your child and school authorities so that you can talk about this problem. Where possible you can even involve a professional counselor. Your child deserves to feel safe and welcome at all times while at school. Make an effort to regularly check on your child to see if indeed he is feeling safer after your intervention. Send your parenting questions to education@newtimes.co.rw