Bullying

In guidance we have been talking about the difference between a normal conflict and bullying.  It can be difficult for children to know the difference.  If someone is mean to them or even hits them it doesn't necessarily mean it is bullying.  What we look at is:

       Normal Conflict                                                            Bullying

*Happens where everyone can see it                       *Happens in secret
*Usually involves other people                                 *One person is the target
*May involve fighting but both people fight               *Threats are used
and it ends quickly                                                   *Hurts with words or actions
*Afterwards the problem is solved and people          *Are not friends with their target
are friends again                                                        *It happens more than once

Bullying ends up with one person feeling unsafe



First graders get Bully Beans during a lesson!



Students learned different ways to handle a bullying situation.  Some of the strategies used for bullying are the same strategies used in a normal conflict.  One major difference is that kids should tell an adult they trust if they are being bullied.  It is not uncommon for students to start talking about being bullied while we discuss this topic in guidance.  It is important for adults to remember to help the child figure out if it really is bullying or a normal conflict and then support them in the appropriate way.

 

Ways to Handle Bullying:

• Ignore the bully
• Stay away from the bully
• Use Power Words (Stop, leave me alone, cut it out)
• Stand up straight and tall, look up not down
• Stay with friends who are nice to you
• Shout so others will hear
• Tell a trusted adult
• Don't believe the bully's words

If you ever have questions or concerns about your child and peer interactions please fell free to call me!