conflict resolution skills

Dylan,

You've got a Good Friend (GF) -- a bit younger than you -- who is still learning that it's not okay to hit.

After a prior, recent, visit you and I had a conversation about how the dynamic between you two usually plays out; GF tries to take something, you yell or scream at him, then he hits you in the face. I explained to you how the yelling and screaming helps to escalate the situation and advised you to help defuse it by using words to tell him what you mean.

I watched GF, empty-handed, follow you into the next room yesterday as you drove a tractor which you'd each had a turn with earlier. I suspected a confrontation and followed at a distance sufficient that neither of you noticed.

Within five seconds, GF had reached for the toy then whacked you in the face when you didn't relinquish it. I was very pleased to see you react by standing up, stepping back and saying "GF, will you please don't hit me?"

I had my own conversation with GF at that point.

As I walked out of the room you approached GF and asked him again to not hit you.

*****

There are a number of effective ways to respond to bullying behavior -- and I will teach you more of those ways as I deem it appropriate -- but it's critical that you first master stepping back and speaking your mind. I'm really proud of you and the progress you've made to that end.