My son has a cleft lip, and other kids have been making fun of
him. How can I help him handle the teasing? - John Most kids
experience teasing at some point and it can be very difficult
for them to handle. Kids with a cleft lip or other physical
differences can be easy targets because the differences are so
visible. But you can help your son by encouraging him to express
how he feels, showing him that you understand, and talking
through some strategies for dealing with it. For example, teach
him to be assertive (but not aggressive) and to use a proud
voice to tell the child who is making fun of him to stop. Other
strategies might include ignoring or walking away, finding a
"safe" person or a friend to be near, or telling a teacher or
another adult. Some kids like to think of short phrases or jokes
to say in response to teasing, but remind your son not to tease
back, fight, or say something hurtful in return, which can only
make the situation worse. You also can help him become more
resilient by offering your