AIBU to think he’s being naive?

[LoopyLou1981]

DS has just started in reception (I get that, by definition, a 4 year old is naive but it was best word I could think of).
Over the term he’s been coming home once of twice a week with marker pen marks on his sweatshirt. When asked he says that his friends do it and it’s ok, it’s funny.
More recently the he’s had pen marks on his back (definite dots so not an accidental smudge).
AIBU to think they are probably picking on him and laughing about it and he’s not wise enough yet to see that it’s not friendly?
Part of me wants to ask his teacher and the other part doesn’t want to be ‘that’ parent.
No one is hurting him and saying anything obviously mean. He’s not injured in and way. It’s just these pen marks...

That happened with one of my boys. I think that it was innocent. They didn't draw a cock and balls! I checked with the teacher because I was annoyed that it might not wash out. So I would recommend checking with your teacher.

Thanks, I think I’ll send the teacher a message then. I had a crap time at school so it’s possible that it’s clouding my judgement and see an issue where there isn’t one x

I think kids that age are too young for this sort of sneaky behaviour. They’re probably doing it to each other for fun. I wouldn’t worry if he isn’t worried.

I would speak to the teacher. Yes they are young but they still shouldn't be doing that.

I agree with speaking to the teacher. They're very young and just starting out. It's the teachers responsibility.

There is no harm in asking the teacher. As you said, 4YO is pretty naive. And I don't think the other kids in the class will have sinister intentions behind it. You're probably not witness to the other 29 kids going home covered in pen as well!

My eldest always used to come home with those marks, as did the rest of the class. It's a pain as they don't come out in the wash. It wasn't malicious or anything. They write with them.
I don't think the boys are being mean though. If your worries have a word with the teacher

Not just four year olds...have taught teenage boys and they still do it to each other for laughs. Own child (teenage boy) also comes home the same way!

deadheadstickeronacadillac good to know I’ve got this for the next 10-15 years then! 😂
Thanks everyone. I’m sure I’m being overprotective (pfb and all that!) and it’ll turn out to be nothing 🙂 x

He is probably doing it back to others too.