Parents, school is starting soon and I’m hoping that you are preparing your kids for the bullying situations that they might encounter.
This is the thing. Whether you know that your kids have been bullied in the past, were bullies in the past, were bystanders in the past or you don’t know if they were involved in bullying events in any way, one thing is certain. Your children were involved in bullying events in some way. Whether you want to admit that or not doesn’t mean that it isn’t true.
So based on the statistics, you need to be open to that fact and help your kids to avoid potentially dangerous bullying situations. Please give your kids the tools to help them deal with all that they might encounter when school starts.
These are a few ways that you can begin the conversations about bullying.
- Do you have any worries or concerns about the new school year?
- Was there anything that went on last year that make you concerned about this year?
- Are there any kids that you want to avoid?
- Are there adults at your school that you trust enough to confide in?
- Do you feel like you are as “cool” as the other kids?
- Did you know that the way you respond to bullies can stop them from bullying more?
If you are being bullied please tell us or some adult. Remember that you do not deserve to be treated poorly. You are so special and so loved. Don’t ever forget that we are always here for you and you can tell us anything and everything.
If you ever witness anyone being bullied, you have a responsibility to do something to help. That is what we expect you to do because you are a caring and special person. We taught you about what is right and wrong and you need to stand up for what is right.
Bullying is not cool. Bullies do not go without consequences. Bullying events can destroy lives including those of the bullies.
Please talk to us if there are any bullying events that you experience. We are here to help you and guide you anyway that we can. You can make a difference and you can help yourself and you can help other kids by standing up for what is right.
Photo: Jon_Marshall
