October is National Bullying Prevention Month
Youth today face bullying in many forms. “Bullying is intentional tormenting in physical, verbal, or psychological ways. It can range from hitting, shoving, name-calling, threats, and mocking to extorting money and possessions. Some kids bully by shunning others and spreading rumors about them. Others use social media or electronic messaging to taunt others or hurt their feelings.” (kidshealth.org)
While sometimes we cannot stop bullying from happening, we can take measures to show support to youth and help them manage the situation.
Ways To Help Your Child Deal With Bullying:
Parent/guardians can help their child with bullies by looking out for signs of bullying, talking about it with their child and providing guidance on how to handle the situation. According to stopbullying.gov, “When adults respond quickly and consistently to bullying behavior, they send the message that it is not acceptable. Research shows this can stop bullying behavior over time. Parents, school staff, and other adults in the community can help kids prevent bullying by talking about it, building a safe school environment, and creating a community-wide bullying prevention strategy.”
Mentors can provide support for a child experiencing bullying. In some cases, children are more likely to talk to a third-party individual more openly than their parent/guardians; so, if you are having trouble communicating with your child about bullying, a mentor could be a great bridge builder for your family’s communication.
Having a mentor can make the child feel more empowered, supported, and secure because they know they have another adult in their life who believes in them and builds them up even in times where bullies try to tear them down.
To become a mentor, email [email protected]
