At what age can children begin to exhibit bullying behavior?

Children can begin to exhibit bullying behavior before the age of five, as this is a key developmental stage where they start to learn social interaction and emotional regulation. During this period, they are exploring their environment, engaging with peers, and beginning to understand concepts of power and control within their relationships. Even though their understanding of social dynamics is still developing, some children may display aggressive or exclusionary behaviors, which can be characterized as early forms of bullying.

It’s important to recognize that while formal definitions of bullying often relate to specific behaviors observed in older children, many foundational social skills and peer interactions begin long before school age. Being attentive to these behaviors at an early age can help caregivers and educators manage interactions and guide children towards more pro-social behaviors.