This week, in schools around the country, the message of  'Bullying No Way' will be emphasised. This message is constantly addressed with students through lessons and assemblies as well as being reinforced by parents and the media. 

More than at any other time in our history, we have the capability through media (including social media) to create an awareness and educate about the detrimental effects of bullying and yet, it continues to be insidious. 

Perhaps a place to start is reflecting on our own behaviour. Generally we are wired to believe that mostly we are 'in the right'. It is fairly natural that we see things from our own perspective but the pitfall of this is that we might not see the reality.

Children will comment that someone is bullying them, More often than not, the child has felt bullied because they did not get their way in a game or a situation such as sitting next to the friend of their choice.

What can schools do? Respond as is appropriate and in line with the school Code of Conduct and continue to educate children about the difference between thoughtless behaviour and intentional harm such as bullying.

What can parents do? Continue to build resilience in their child, help them to develop tolerance and to speak up when someone is behaving in a manner that is offensive. In Year 5 and Year 6, monitoring your child's interactions in domains such as Snapchat and Instagram (minimum age 13) can help to prevent harmful comments.

The familiar saying 'It takes a village to raise a child' is a great reminder of the importance of  families and schools working together.

 

God bless,

Geraldine