BULLYING IS NOT A NORMAL PART OF GROWING UP – ADULTS CAN HELP!

This article was shared with me from people who work with the Respect Ed division of the Canadian Red Cross. www.redcross.ca/RespectED

Let children know that you will take concerns seriously and take action to protect them. Often, kids feel powerless when bullied, and presume no one can help them.
Teach a child to report bullying to a trusted adult, and to be specific about what is happening. Saying, “She calls me names” or “He threatens to hurt me” is more effective than “She’s bugging me!”

Model respectful behaviour in your daily interactions—children often emulate the behaviours of adults close to them.

Work with the school to educate others about the problem of bullying.

Cyberbullying – If it is happening online:

Recognize that online communication is a very important social aspect in a child’s life. Do not automatically remove their online privileges if you find out about a cyberbullying experience.

Teach children to -

1. STOP and do not respond to the sender,
   
2. BLOCK the sender,
   
3. TELL an adult what is happening,
   
4. SAVE the messages for reporting to the
   appropriate authorities.
   
   
   If a child is being bullied:    
   
   
    Offer comfort and support. Assure a child that the bullying is not his/her fault and that everyone deserves respect. 
    Make a plan of action together. Talk about ways to avoid the bully or stick with friends so a child is not alone. 
    Talk about strategies to use:
   - Walk away and ignore it by acting uninterested or pretending to text someone. - Use humour to diffuse the situation.
   - Hold in the emotions and practice a poker face to hide any reaction.
   - Be assertive. Say, “Stop it!” confidently without using a mean voice.
    Explain that using fists or insults as protection against bullying is not a good solution—it could make things worse (and get a child in trouble).
    Help a child with their self- esteem by valuing their contributions and achievements. If they are socially isolated at school, get them involved in community activities that will allow them to socialize and build confidence.