Final answer:
Early in school, children are more likely to be bullied, particularly if they exhibit emotional reactivity or stand out from their peers. Key strategies to help mitigate this include positive reinforcement from adults and building competencies in various activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
In comparison to later school years, children are more likely to be bullied throughout their first two years of education. This is often because children who are emotionally reactive or different in any visible or known way, such as being overweight, cognitively impaired, or racially, ethnically, or sexually diverse compared to their peers, are at a higher risk of being targeted by bullies. Additionally, the early years in school are a critical period for socialization and building self-esteem and resilience against peer rejection and academic stress can contribute to the development of strong interpersonal skills and a positive self-image.
It is important to note that the role of adults during this period is crucial. Teachers and parents can help bolster a child's self-esteem by providing positive feedback and supporting the development of competencies in various areas such as academics, sports, and social activities. This support can help children navigate the challenges of early schooling including the academic stress and teacher expectations that may arise.