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Taking A Stand Against Bullying
Bullying – a parent and child’s worst nightmare that all too often becomes a reality. The reality of bullying cost the life of 12 year old Bailey O’Neill. It is not enough to read this news report and feel sad or disgusted. As parents we have to DO something. It is up to us to stop bullying – each and every parent has to take responsibility and say, “NO MORE.”
As Parents We Need To Be Aware:
- Parents are the first teachers/influencers of children. Each of us needs to stop and examine our own attitudes, perceptions, values and language. Do we say things – even sarcastically – that fuel a bullying attitude against those who are different than us?
- Be aware of your child and the signs that she could be the victim of bullying or be the person doing the bullying.
- Find out your school’s anti-bullying policy and ask how it is enforced. If your school does not have a policy, start a committee to get a policy in place.
- Keep open communication with your child. Talk about kindness, respecting differences and that you are always there to help them.
- Know your child’s friends, how he spends his time and what values his peer group upholds.
- Don’t wait for something to happen. Be involved!
My son will start Kindergarten next year and bullies are one of the things I am most worried about. I remember I was bullied in school, but it seems like bullies are much worse now a days.
Best of luck Nancy! We hope he only has positive experiences!