CHILDREN
DON’T SHOW DISTRESS. It gives the bully an emotional pay-off. Bullies love to give degrading names to other children. Name-calling is very common. It is often used to test the bully’s power over the victim and see to how far he can go. Stopping it early on can prevent it from escalating into something more serious. By ignoring it, the bullies will lose their free entertainment, and soon they will stop.
DON’T BE A WITNESS. If you see bullying happening, walk away. It implies disapproval and weakens the bully’s position by removing an essential audience. The chances are he will soon lose interest. Meanwhile, report the incident to an adult.
PARENTS
BUILD SELF-CONFIDENCE. A bullied child often feels somehow to blame for the situation. A healthy self-esteem allows them to behave in a positive but controlled manner. Many children don’t know how to stand up for themselves without fighting back.
STRENGTHEN FRIENDSHIP. Encourage children to make new friends who can give moral support. Going for swimming or taekwondo classes not only gives kids a chance to make new friends but can also build up a child’s social skills and confidence.
SEEK EXPERT HELP. First make an appointment to see your child’s teacher. Bring a written report of the bullying incidents and set a mutually agreed time limit for action to take effect. Don’t telephone the bully’s parents or talk to the bully yourself – let the school do it. If the bullying does not stop, see the principal.
Tae Kwon Do isn’t really a good option for kids who are being bullied. Its not a martial art- its a sport and has virtually no practical application for self defense.
I am a retired elementary teacher and the author of DON’T CALL ME MICHAEL. This book is about bullying, friendship, and forgiveness. The reality is that parents don’t often realize that THEIR child may be the bully. Teachers can’t be the only ones responsible for solving bullying problems. Often the bully apprars to be the good student until they are out of sight of an adult. This book can be used as a discussion about bullies. It is a story kids can relate to and parents can read to help themselves understand how bullies manipulate others. DON’T CALL ME MICHAEL is available on Amazon or from Tate Publishing.