Monday, August 13, 2012

5 Ways to Bully-Proof Your Kid


Source:  http://teachersinsport.files.wordpress.com/2011/09/image_happy_kids_trans.gif 

Schools are taking a strong anti-bullying stance to stop bullying in schools. It is being discussed by teachers and other staff of the schools. In addition to these, parents can do their part at home, too. Here are five smart strategies to keep kids from becoming targets — and stop bullying that have already started:

1.      Talk about it. Talk about bullying with your kids and have other family members share their experiences. If one of your kids opens up about being bullied, praise him or her for being brave enough to discuss it and offer unconditional support. Consult with the school to learn its policies and find out how staff and teachers can address the situation.

2.      Remove the bait. If it's lunch money or gadgets that the school bully is after, you can help neutralize the situation by encouraging your child to pack a lunch or go to school gadget-free.

3.      Buddy up for safety. Two or more friends standing at their lockers are less likely to be picked on than a child who is all alone. Remind your child to use the buddy system during the interval period, or wherever bullies may lurk.

4.      Keep calm and carry on. If a bully strikes, a kid's best defense may be to remain calm, ignore hurtful remarks, tell the bully to stop, and simply walk away. Bullies thrive on hurting others. A child who isn't easily ruffled has a better chance of staying off a bully's radar.

5.      Don't try to fight the battle yourself. Sometimes talking to a bully's parents can be constructive, but it's generally best to do so in a setting where a school official, such as a counselor, can mediate.

Reference: The Nemours Foundation, 2012, 5 Ways to Bully-Proof Your Kid [Online] Available from:http://kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/feelings/bully-proof.html



1 comment:

  1. I think all of us are aware about this bullying problem that's instantly increasing whether in school or outside of school and this tips are very helpful when it comes providing our kids the proper way to protect themselves. However, parents can also prevent this problem by establishing an open line communication with their children. It is really important that parents will listen intently to what their children is saying. And we all know that bullying is a sensitive subject for both the child and parent. We really need to do something about it before it get worst and end up to suicide. I just read a blog that really stuck me to the core. A mother, writing about her own child's safety and their heartbreaking experience. This is it: http://www.tsue-thatswhatshesaid.com/2011/08/your-childs-safety-your-piece-of-mind.htm

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