Therefore, the critical role that school plays in the child's social development and self-concept must be recognized. Even if a child is enjoying academic success in the classroom, his attitude about school will be determined by the degree of social success that he experiences. There is much that the teacher can do to foster and promote social development in the student. Many students with learning disabilities find themselves in the rejected or isolated subgroups. It is important for the teacher to assist the students' classmates in changing their view of this child.
Punishment is an extremely ineffective method of modifying bullying or rejecting behavior.
If you punish Billy for rejecting Joey, you only increase Billy's resentment of his classmate. However, you can increase a child's level of acceptance in several ways. Attempt to determine specific interests, hobbies or strengths of the rejected child. This can be accomplished via discussions, interviews or surveys. Once you have identified the child's strengths, celebrate it in a very public manner.