-With school already in session or will be in session in a few weeks it is important that you kids know how to deal with bullying below are some tips on how they can deal with bullying.
-Bullying may affect you children in many way such as them not wanting to go to school, have trouble doing their homework, may loose sleep, eat more or less than usual, having headaches or stomachaches, or getting sick more often, but tell you children that they do not have to feel this way and that their feelings are important.
Let you kids know to:
Not blame themselves: It is easy for them to question whether they are the problem. But no matter what someone says or does, they should not be ashamed of who they are or what they feel.
-Be proud of who they are: It doesn't matter what they say, there are wonderful things about them. Tell then to keep the good things in mind instead of the disrespectful messages they get from the people who are bullying them.
-Do not be afraid to get help. Sometimes it helps to just talk to someone who is not personally involved. Teachers, counselors, and others are there to help. Seeing a counselor or other professional does not mean there is something wrong with them.
Here are somethings you kids can do if they are bullied:
-Tell them to stop.
-Walk away: Do not let them get to you. If you walk away or ignore them, they will not get that satisfaction and you will feel better.
-Protect yourself: Sometimes you cannot walk away. If you are being physically hurt, protect yourself so that you can get away.
-Tell an adult you trust. Talking to someone could help you figure out the best ways to deal with the problem. In some cases, adults need to get involved for the bullying to stop.
-Find a safe place. Go somewhere that you feel safe and secure like the library, a favorite teacher’s classroom, or the office.
-Stick together. Stay with a group or individuals that you trust.
-Find opportunities to make new friends. Explore your interests and join school or community activities such as sports, drama, or art. Volunteer or participate in community service.
Additional Resources:
http://www.stompoutbullying.org/
http://www.pacerteensagainstbullying.org/
http://www.education.com/topic/school-bullying-teasing/
http://www.glsen.org/cgi-bin/iowa/all/antibullying/index.html
http://www.stopbullyingnow.com/
http://sparkaction.org/node/614
Tips provide above are from: http://www.stopbullying.gov/teens/being_bullied/index.html
