Bullying and Racism in a Childcare Setting

Bullying and racism are deeply ingrained in many human societies. Where they once might have been tolerated, even encouraged, these values no longer mesh with the multi-cultural, multi-ethnic society Australia enjoys today.

Unfortunately, bullying and racism prevails in many parts of Australia today. Often it is very subtle and insidious. It should not be tolerated; racist or bullying behaviours should be recognised and dealt with in an appropriate and timely manner. It is possible for staff working in a childcare centre, or the children they are caring for, to bully or discriminate based on race.

Possible Indications of racism or bullying

• Discriminatory policies and procedures
• Racist comments, ridicule or abuse (verbal or written)
• Racist propaganda
• Refusal to co-operate with people from different groups
• Judgements based on stereotypes
• Non-inclusive curriculum or teaching practices
• Physical assault and harassment

Short terms effects of bullying and racism on children

• Feeling anxious and depressed
• Withdrawing from others, fear of school / childcare
• Tension in learning and playing environments
• Silent, withdrawn, not engaging in learning / playing activities
• Unable to concentrate
• Unable to take risks with learning / playing activities
• Poor school / centre attendance
• Aggressive or violent reactions
• Disruptive behavior
• Have trouble making friends
• Not speak their first language for fear of being picked on.
• Get lower school results
• Reject their own culture and parental values
• Be confused about their own identity

Long term effects of bullying and racism have on children

• Lower school participation rates for students from some cultural and linguistic groups
• Lower literacy and numeracy outcomes for students from some cultural and linguistic groups
• Lower rates of attendance, participation and retention in education for students from some cultural and linguistic groups
• Barriers to employment and further education pathways
• Gifts and talents of students from some cultural and linguistic groups are not recognized and or developed.

Tips for dealing with bullies

• Talk about it – Talking about it can be a good way of letting out your frustrations that can be built up when being bullied
• Don’t get physical – Not only will you be showing the bully your anger, but you do not know what the bully will do in return.
• Hold the anger – the bully will want to see your anger or hurt – don’t give them the satisfaction! Think of ways you can use your anger differently – such as: writing about it; drawing or talking to someone.
• Practice Confidence – practice feeling good about yourself, and what your reaction to the bully will be. You could possibly even make a joke of what the bully is saying about you – that will catch them off guard.
• Take charge of your life – you cannot control other’s actions, but you can control yours. Think about ways to feel your best.