What do kids fear most? Research shows they’re terrified of bullies. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about why kids bully, how it impacts them, and what to say if your kid becomes the bully.

Why This Matters

Bullying hurts kids and dads need to know how to console them when it happens.

Why Do Kids Bully?

1. They’re seeking power and control.

2. They want attention.

3. They show a learned behavior.  

4. They have emotional problems. 

5. They lack social skills and empathy. 

Common Types of Bullying

1. Verbal – This is common with, but not exclusive to, younger age groups. 

2. Physical – This should not be tolerated. Alert teachers or coaches if this is happening to your child.

3. Emotional – The impacts of bullying on mental health can be devastating. 

Action Steps for Dads

1: Be a support person for your child.
Create a safe space for them to talk and share their pain, struggles, and failures. Say things like, “I will help you stay positive when things are hard.”

2: Talk about bullying and what it looks like.
Kids are more likely to talk about bullying if you ask them questions about others, like “how do the people at school treat each other?” Eventually, move the conversation to them. 

3: Model empathy.
Show your kids how to treat people with kindness, care, and empathy.  

Important Episode Timestamps

00:01:05 – 03:04 | Could Your Kid Be the Bully? 

03:04 – 05:16 | Why We Assume Bullying Is Always Someone Else’s Kid

05:16 – 09:00 | Why Do Kids Bully?

09:00 – 11:22 | The Difference Between Teasing and Bullying

11:22 – 13:58 | How Parents Accidentally Enable Bullying

13:58 – 16:14 | Teaching Empathy Instead of Just Punishment

16:14 – 18:41 | How To Handle a Bully

18:41 – 21:03 | Taking Responsibility and Making It Right

21:03 – End | Raising Kids Who Use Strength the Right Way

APD Pro Move:
Ask your kids about how people treat one another at their school. Have a conversation about bullying this week and see what you can uncover about their world. 

All Pro Dad Resources

Episode 102 –

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BJ Foster on LinkedIn

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