Respond sensitively to the question "Mum, what if I'm ostracised later?"
Children often ask questions that arise from deep concern and uncertainty. The question "Mum, what if I'm ostracised later?" expresses feelings of fear and loneliness. Parents thus face one of the most important challenges: How can I give my child support when they fear social exclusion?
Social exclusion can have a significant impact on a child's self-esteem and mental health. However, there are numerous ways to support children and show them how to deal with this fear and find opportunities for social integration.
In this article, you will learn how you as a parent can take your child's worries seriously and give them impulses so that they feel safe and accepted.
Why do children ask "Mum, what if I'm excluded later?"?
Children quickly realise how important belonging and acceptance are for their well-being. If they question this security, they express fears.
There are many reasons for this fear. A lack of friendships, negative experiences at school or even social pressure can lead to this. Some children are worried about being different - be it because of their appearance, interests or background.
Example 1: Lisa feels alone because she has not been added to the class group chat and hears her classmates whispering.
Example 2: Paul is afraid he won't be allowed to play because he looks different from the other children in the day-care centre.
Example 3: Sarah is insecure because she is made fun of at school because of her special hobbies.
How parents can answer the question "Mum, what if I'm excluded later?" in a meaningful way
As parents, you should not dismiss this question. Instead, it is advisable to speak openly with your child - without appeasing or trivialising. Provide reassurance and emphasise the uniqueness of your child.
Tip 1: Encourage your child to talk about their feelings. Regular conversations promote trust and help to recognise bullying at an early stage.
Tip 2: Strengthen resilience by showing your child that being different is valuable. Many successful people were outsiders in childhood[1].
Tip 3: Support the development of social skills, for example through playful exercises or social training, in order to make and maintain friendships.
Example 1: Maria helps her daughter to resolve minor conflicts with friends by practising role-playing.
Example 2: Thomas accompanies his son to a social skills training course that strengthens self-confidence and communication skills.
Example 3: Anja talks to her child about all the beautiful qualities that make her special and encourages her to be proud of them.
The importance of support services: "Mum, what if I'm marginalised later?" as an impetus for prevention
It is advisable to deal with the topic not only within the family circle. Professional training courses such as the kikidz courses offer valuable support for parents and children.
These programmes help families deal with fears of exclusion. They provide impulses for building social skills and for dealing with difficult situations at school and during leisure time.
Example 1: A mother reports that her son is now more confident in approaching other children after taking part in kikidz.
Example 2: A father appreciates that the training gave him the impetus to strengthen his child during negative experiences.
Example 3: Many parents report that thanks to the courses they can better understand and support their child's fear of exclusion.
Mum, what if I'm ostracised later? - How children can be supported today
The question "Mum, what if I'm ostracised later?" shows a deep-seated fear. But we can strengthen children and accompany them on their journey.
Regular conversations, boosting self-confidence and creating a respectful environment help to alleviate the social pain[6][7]. Parents are key companions in this process by understanding and supporting their children.
It is also important to recognise signs of exclusion early on and seek professional help if necessary. This can prevent anxiety, withdrawal or even depression from developing[1][3].
My analysis
The question "Mum, what if I'm ostracised later?" is more than just childish insecurity. It reflects the fundamental need to belong. Parents can help their child to deal with this worry constructively through open dialogue, an encouraging attitude and the use of suitable support services.
Programmes such as kikidz are one of the best training programmes to support both children and parents in this process. Strengthening social skills and creating an inclusive environment are crucial for the healthy development and well-being of children.
Further links from the text above:
[1] Exclusion at school: how can you help your child?
[3] Social exclusion at school can disrupt brain development
[6] Social exclusion: consequences, motives and attributions
[7] Social exclusion and bullying - The Inquisitive Mind
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