Bullying isn’t a new trend, but it’s not going to get old anytime soon, either.
As a parent, it’s very crucial that you don’t take bullying (or even teasing) lightly. It may not seem like a big deal to you, but the effects of bullying on your kids (whether they are the bully or the one being bullied) will last a long time, that is, if you don’t do something about it now.
If your child is the bully, explain to him or her that bullying not only hurts other kids, but himself or herself, too. Bullying is a form of abuse which will make it hard for him or her to make friends and socialize, something kids really need.
If your child is the one being bullied, confront the bully’s parents and inform the school that such behaviors should not be tolerated.
But what if your child witnessed someone getting bullied? There is a responsibility here, too…
Encourage your child to not just be a bystander. Someone is hurting someone else, and this should be reported. Your child won’t be a “snitch;” instead, he or she will be helping both sides in the long run.
Talk to your kids about bullying today. Don’t let them lose their self-esteem on confidence in themselves before you begin taking action.
Is your child a bully? Has your child been bullied, either at school or online? Is your child a bystander? What do you tell your kids about all these aspects about bullying?
Bullying Busters or Bystanders [Examiner]
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
“Bullies thrive wherever authority is weak” (Tim Fields). This statement says it all. The awful tragedy that occurred this past April “Constantly bullied, he ends his life at age 11” (Boston Globe on April 20, 2009) has now pushed the Massachusetts legislature to propose a new bill to force schools to This preventable tragedy makes it clear to me that not much has changed since the early 60’s when I was in grade school. My two younger brothers were constantly harassed, bullied, and made fun of because they were mentally retarded.
Since the Columbine tragedy, many resources were developed by the federal government and school districts to prevent school bullying. Yet, schools continue to fail.
As a Special Ed Parent Coach and Advocate, I’ve worked with many families where bullying of their child with special needs was a significant problem. An 11 year old boy with a neurological impairment was constantly bullied. The bullying (sexual harassment) took place out of the classroom. His parents were informed by another student. Children who are bullied are fearful to tell an adult because of the retribution they would face.
At a meeting with the principal, I asked what protocols and programs did the school have in place to address bullying, and he told me that they had an assembly on it once a year. Need I say more?
Attending a team meeting for a 10 year old, the mother was explaining to the Vice Principal that her child was a victim of bullying. She told her that other students called him a “retard” and anyone who was his friend was a “retard” too. With a slight chuckle the Vice Principal responded that this was typical behavior for fourth grade boys.
Children can be extremely cruel to one another. There must be more adult supervision on school buses, in the hallways, in the cafeteria, and in the playground. And adults need to act as adults.
Mindy – it’s so true. Thank you for your thoughtful comments. Adults have to set the stage and if VP’s are laughing at the retard jokes also, it’s not very heartening for the parents.
What do you suggest as the best way that people can make a difference in their schools? Do you know how to go about getting this extra supervision that would make a difference and prevent the bullying? Appreciating you and your work…