Peer pressure – it’s a common issue and it’s not only teenagers who fall prey to it. Younger children can also feel the effects of peer pressure and it’s not a pleasant feeling at all. Often, the children who fall prey to peer pressure are already struggling in one way or another. They may find making friends difficult, or perhaps they’re struggling academically and feel the need to stand out or fit in with a particular group as a way of protecting themselves.
Either way, it’s never a good idea to fall into pleasing others when your actions are going against your own morals or sensibilities. Schools can offer wonderful support when the right systems are in place. This junior school in Surrey has an excellent pastoral care team so children never feel that they are alone.
Keep the lines of communication open
One of your best defences against peer pressure when it comes to your child, is an open line of communication. If your child feels that they can come to you to discuss their worries and concerns then you’re halfway there.
If, however, they’re afraid to confess wrongdoings or worries because they might get into trouble, then that’s not a good thing. These are the children who can end up acting out at school because they’re already floundering in some way and have not been able to seek help. Try to stay on top of their problems as they arise. Actively seek to help them to fix the issues.
Social issues
Falling in with the ‘wrong crowd’ can of course result in poor behaviour. Why do some children get into trouble and some don’t?
Those who struggle socially may find themselves in tricky situations because they’re keen to make an impression or stand out in some way. Rather than let children struggle alone, help them to make more friends by encouraging hobbies outside school.
Not only will gaining a new hobby increase their self-confidence but also allow them to expand their social groups.
Above all else, let your child know that you’re there to talk to no matter what the problem. Ensure they know that you’ll support them and help them as much as possible so they need never feel alone in their problems.