Being left out - bullying by exclusion

Bullying is not just about punching, kicking and name-calling. Many young people feel that they are bullied by being left out.

Many children with learning disabilities spend most of their lives being left out, and it can feel very lonely. We all have a responsibility to make sure that children and young people with learning disabilities can be involved, whenever possible.

Have a "can-do" attitude

It's true that there are some things that children with learning disabilities may find more difficult, but that doesn't mean they can't be involved. Always assume that someone can be included, and if problems come up, deal with them at that stage. Sometimes, people worry too much about what people with learning disabilities can't do- it's better to let them try. You might be surprised.

Children with learning disabilities are the same as everyone else

Some people worry that they need special training, or special information to be around children with learning disabilities. But, children with learning disabilities are the same as other children. Sometimes you'll need extra information and support, but don't let that mean that children are excluded from everything from school lessons to games and birthday parties.

Equal doesn't always mean the same

Sometimes, to allow children with learning disabilities to have equal access and equal chances, it can mean that we have to go the extra mile to include them. Equal opportunity doesn't always mean treating children with learning disabilities the same as everyone else. It could mean presenting information in a different way, or creating a special job to help them feel included.

Take risks

Don't panic. You might worry that a child with a learning disability will be left out by other children, or that they won't be able to join in because of their disability. We all take risks every day, and often the things we most enjoyed are the things that most terrified us at the start. Young people with learning disabilities need to be able to learn by trial and error in the same way as everyone else.

Encourage empathy in other young people

Children with learning disabilities have the same feelings as everyone else when they are left out. Encourage other children to think about a time when they have been left out, and ask them how they felt. Often, something as simple as thinking about how others feel can make all the difference.

Talking about feelings learning activity

Include children with learning disabilities right from the start

Very young children are often more accepting of difference than older children. If children with learning disabilities are included in games and clubs right from the start, other children are more likely to accept them as friends. This could help avoid bullying, since they are less likely to children with learning disabilities as "different".

Look at support options

If you are worried about including a child with learning disabilities at a regularly occurring event, like a youth group or after-school club, it might be useful to look into what support your local authority can provide. Sometimes, extra staff or support with transport is available. Contact the Additional Support Needs unit at your local authority for more information.

Case study: ENABLE Link