{"id":6106,"date":"2026-05-25T13:25:35","date_gmt":"2026-05-25T05:25:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/elfapreschools.com\/singapore\/?p=6106"},"modified":"2026-05-25T13:25:35","modified_gmt":"2026-05-25T05:25:35","slug":"preschool-bullying-how-do-i-know-and-what-can-i-do","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/elfapreschools.com\/singapore\/preschool-bullying-how-do-i-know-and-what-can-i-do\/","title":{"rendered":"Preschool Bullying: How Do I Know, and What Can I Do?"},"content":{"rendered":"

When a recent Channel NewsAsia report (15 April 2026) highlighted stricter measures for school bullying\u2014including suspension, detention, and even caning for serious cases\u2014it gave many parents pause.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is serious.\u201d<\/p>\n

And it is.<\/p>\n

But beyond the headlines, this moment invites a deeper reflection\u2014not just on how bullying is managed, but on how it begins, and more importantly, how it can be prevented. If strong discipline is needed later, are we doing enough in the early years?<\/p>\n

It Often Starts Earlier Than We Think<\/strong><\/h2>\n

At ELFA, we advocate that learning does not begin with academics\u2014it begins with character, relationships, emotions, and social understanding.<\/p>\n

\u201cBullying\u201d can occur even in preschool. Young children are still learning how to manage their emotions, communicate their needs, and build friendships. Sometimes, their actions may unintentionally hurt others. However, when hurtful behaviour becomes repeated or targeted, and uncorrected, it should be taken seriously.<\/p>\n

Parents and educators play a shared role in recognising early signs and supporting children through these experiences.<\/p>\n

What Is Bullying?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/div>

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The Ministry of Education (MOE) describes hurtful behaviour as ranging from one-off insensitive remarks to repeated, intentional actions that cause distress. These behaviours can be verbal, social, or physical.<\/p>\n

When such actions are deliberate and persistently directed at the same child, they are considered bullying.<\/p>\n

In preschool settings, these behaviours often stem from developing social and communication skills. As Minister for Education Mr Desmond Lee noted, children are still learning what is right and wrong and how to interact with others.<\/p>\n

Why Early Intervention Matters<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Bullying at a young age can affect how safe and confident a child feels. It may impact their friendships, emotional well-being, and even their interest in learning.<\/p>\n<\/div>

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Children from ELFA Preschool packed donated items for ARC Children\u2019s Centre, fostering kindness, empathy, community spirit, and meaningful connections.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>

Research shows that strong social-emotional skills are linked to better mental health and academic outcomes later in life. Addressing these behaviours early also supports MOE\u2019s goal of creating safe, caring school environments through strong school-home partnerships.<\/p>\n

Prevention starts with everyday interactions\u2014both at home and in school.<\/p>\n

How Can Parents Help Prevent Bullying?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/div>
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Art not only encourages creativity but also helps children express their emotions<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>

1. Build your child\u2019s social-emotional foundation<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Pre-schoolers need help learning to name their feelings, empathise with others, and communicate calmly. These are skills highlighted in the Nurturing Early Learners (NEL) Framework.<\/p>\n

At ELFA, these skills are intentionally nurtured through guided interactions, play-based learning, and daily classroom experiences.<\/p>\n

You can reinforce this at home by:<\/p>\n