Advice on how to handle this please...

[Bluesue26]

Have been discussing bullying with DD who is 6. Have told her that should she feel anyone is bullying her to tell us or the teacher. Have also said she should stand up for herself but if she doesn't feel she can do that then to stay away from those people and play with children who want to play nicely. She has now come home from school and said, "I told X and X that you think they are bullies". I'm furious as I NEVER said that. I would not label anyone a bully without just cause and there would be no reason to say these two children are bullies anyway. How do I handle this now? I think I should approach the parents and explain the misunderstanding but am unsure of what to say as I don't really speak to them other than to nod a quick hello in the mornings.

Yes, I'd be upfront with their parents about it - they'll understand I'm sure. Everyone knows children misunderstand things sometimes so just re-explain it to DD, have her explain it back to you to make sure she understands.

Yes, do explain the misunderstanding - if my DC told me someone's mummy said my DC was a bully I'd be pretty pi$$ed off. You can make it funny - you explain you were using those kids as an example to explain to your DD how to handle bullying because it was SO UNLIKELY they really would be bullies - something like that.

Yeah well that's what I thought mommybunny, I'd be upset too if that had been said to DD and would speak to the teacher. I wouldn't mind but we were actually talking about another child "telling off" the others if she can't get her own way. I'll speak to them tomorrow. They seem nice actually. I suppose I'm just a bit intimidated because despite DD being very popular I don't really speak to anyone at school.

Good luck - keep it light and "ha ha - the things kids say!" It's a good way as well to get to know other parents at school, which, whether you like it or not, you need for you DCs to have an ok time at school.