Anti-bullying month for Kids
What comes to mind when you think of the word “bullying?” Maybe your first thoughts are on the school grounds. Perhaps it’s online or at the office. It can even happen in your own home. Bullying happens just about everywhere, and it can happen to anyone.
Everyone at some point has felt a degree of bullying and in some cases it can affect the ability of others to learn in school or to function in their daily lives. This month is anti-bullying month, a nationwide campaign that’s supported by hundreds of schools and communities. This is the time to start educating and spreading awareness to those around you so we better respond to bullying behaviors. Here are several ways to help get involved
—Addressing The Issue:
The best way to address bullying, is to stop the issue before it starts.Getting students engaged in the classrooms or having a conversation at home with a guardian is the first step in becoming aware
—Pay Attention, Respond, React. :
Always be aware of your surroundings. There are many warning signs when it comes to these behaviors like stolen or destroyed personal items, injuries, changes in behavior or eating habits, or even avoiding social activities with friends and family. Make sure to talk to a teacher or a guardian when this happens, do not ignore it!
—Respond, React:
Stand up for others—if you see something, do something! A lot of problems continue because the victim goes on unheard, and a lot of times bullies act out because they WANT to be heard. Confide in a parent or guardian for help if you feel that you or someone you know is being bullied.
If you are the victim, try separate yourself as best as you can by removing yourself from a negative environment and if you’re confident that your bully is not violent in anyway then sometimes confronting them about the issue can help.
—Get Involved with the Community:
According to studies, young people feel safer and less bullied when they’re active in extra curricular activities, after school programs, and or community service projects. Through these outlets, kids and adults learn the value of teamwork and respect through selfless service.
Lastly, learning to laugh at yourself when being teased can also take the power away from the bully and restore the confidence back in yourself. Humor is almost always a good way to diffuse tension filled situations!
-Team Jansson