Helping DC get on with children they used to have problems with

[chococappucino]

DC changed schools and now very happy at a new school. Just heard that another parent is moving their child to the same school. Unfortunately this child was one of the reasons DC moved in the first place. Nothing major, just lots of put downs, talking over them, stopping them being friends with people, making fun of how their parents look etc. At a couple of points they were actually friends - I guess the mumsnet term is she got wendied!

Does anyone have any ideas how I can help DC handle it. It is not that big a school, so sadly not as simple as keeping out of their way.

[lljkk]

Have you asked your DC what they think they could do to make things different this time? We can always do something about our problems.

[chococappucino]

They walked away and changed their friendship group last time. The child is allowed to do things that I wouldn't want my DC to do - will walk along imitating teachers behind their backs - really rude to own parents in front of friends / adults.

I think it is hard to know what to do when people ridicule you without descending to their level. Do you mean to be so rude doesn't work - simply says yes!

DC is hoping that balance of power will shift as the other child will be new this time.

We are both looking for ideas, as being forearmed is a good idea. I hoped other people had ideas that could discuss with DC.

[lljkk]

Having a good social group of one's own is one of the best protections against ... letting other people get you down.