Disliked behaviour

[lessgymbunnymoregymtortoise]

I don't think my DS (7) is being bullied, but he has a child in his class that keeps doing something he doesn't like. The child follows DS around the playground, and pesters DS all the time. DS says this bothers him, and it appears to be making him very upset. DS says he tells the staff on duty, and I have spoken to the school, who said they will keep an eye out.

I'm worried because it hasn't stopped, or lessened at all. I think this child just lacks social skills, and wishes to be friends with my DS, but my DS says he doesn't want to be friends with him. DS says he just wants this kid to stop bothering him. I'm concerned that if DS says something, he could be 'being mean', and be accused of bullying this child. This school is very strict on bullying, and I'm worried that if DS upsets this child, he could get in to trouble. Everyone is supposed to care for everyone, so DS could be in trouble if he's unfriendly or unkind, or at worst loses his temper.

What should I advise DS?

[mumnosbest]

If any behaviour is upsetting and happening frequently then school needs to deal with it. Even if this child has additional needs, he still needs support to socialise and not hurt/upset others.

[lairaine]

Go back to the school. Be firm and ask the staff to be diligent and stop the behaviour of the child that is shadowing your son. Separate them wherever possible. The staff must stop this behaviour because it's causing your son (and you) stress. After this request, wait a week and go back to see what progress has been made. After that, hopefully all will be well, if not take it further. He's your son and only you can protect him. Good luck.