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Is it normal for boys to come home from reception class with scratches + bruises. It's only week 3. Am dreading tomorrow already

5 replies

scrambledhead · 14/09/2008 19:53

That's it really. DS1 has done 8 days so far and I've heard about him being pushed, slapped, kicked and on Friday evening I noticed scratch marks on his chest.

Each attack was on a different day, apparently by a different boy every time (always at playtime).

I've mentioned it to a couple of other mums who have also had problems with kicking, hair pulling etc.

Is this normal? I know I have to allow for a settling-in period but even so. My lad is quiet and gentle. He must have been terrified. He doesn't do fighting. This is breaking my heart. He is enjoying school and seems to be doing really well. He is the type who is always eager to please and would never create a fuss (star of the class in assembly on Friday). But we don't do violence at home. This is all new to me and I'm going to have to raise it with his teacher in the morning. Right???

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TotalChaos · 14/09/2008 19:54

No, this isn't normal. Sounds like the playground supervision is inadequate.

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mumto2andnomore · 14/09/2008 20:35

No its not normal, speak to his teacher.My 5 year old does get bruises, but from falling over not through being hurt by other children.

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Marina · 14/09/2008 20:36

Bruises from tumbles, but not from fighting, and not scratches.
I would get the teacher's input on this. Good luck with getting it sorted, poor little chap.

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debs40 · 14/09/2008 22:21

Hi

I really feel for you as my ds is now in Year 1 and we had all this last year.

I have posted this week here because he came home last week with scratches and bruises after being punched and pushed. The school accept 'play fighting' but boundaries do not seem to be enforced. I've spoken to his teacher who is hopefully going to address this.

I do not feel this is normal behaviour but I have spent a horrible year being persuaded that 'boys will be boys' and then having my son told off for hitting back.

My advice is nip this in the bud. Ask politely but firmly about their behaviour policy and expectations. The children are very new, it may be something they are working on. Either way, you need to establish some positive communication on this with the teacher so you can feel reassured about your son's welfare.

Good luck!

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scrambledhead · 15/09/2008 09:35

Thanks everyone. I just mentioned it to his teacher. I tried to be positive and I managed not to cry. Fingers crossed ...