Article

The percentage of children being bullied in our elementary schools has been a controversial number. One thing that isn't controversial is that it needs to be reduced. By using The S.T.A.R.S. technique, your child or student will easily remember what to do as a bystander that see's someone being bullied, or prevent themselves from becoming a potential target.

Start Snitching:

Encourage your child or student to speak up when they witness someone else being bullied or if they themselves have been the target of bullying. The stigma that is associated with the word "snitch" is designed to silence our children and many of them buy into it not realizing that remaining silent means they will suffer alone. Teach your child or student that it's ok to be a reporter like the ones they see on the news. Schools should have a system in place for a student to report bullying anonymously. Know what that system is and make sure your child or student also knows what it is.

Take charge:

Students must take charge and get the message out that they will not tolerate bullying in their school! They can promote this message by asking the principal if it's ok to create anti-bullying posters to hang, or speak at student assemblies. Having an entire school supporting this cause will make it more difficult for bullies to remain in the shadows. Have your student or child take charge and begin an anti-bullying campaign in their school.

Always practice being confident:

Confidence can be gained by practicing. Have your child or student practice walking and speaking with confidence. Walking with their head down and shoulders slumped can give the perception that they are weak and lack confidence which in many schools is an invitation for bullies that believe they have found an easy target. Have your child or student practice walking with their head up and shoulders back. Have them practice speaking with confidence, loud and clear, using power words like "Stop!" and "No!" The little man and big man anti-bullying campaign teaches children to recognize these power words which serve as signals for others students to get involved when their classmates are being bullied.

Resist getting physical:

Resorting to physical force is not the answer and usually results in being labeled a fighter or trouble maker. Instead teach your child or student to stand up for themselves in other ways, like walking away. Many people believe that walking away is a sign of weakness, however being aggressive can often lead to more violence.

Safety in numbers

There is safety in numbers. Encourage your child or student to surround themselves with friends they trust. Having a bystander nearby often dissuades the bully. Every school should have an anti-bullying program that teaches the bystander what to do when they witness bullying and safe actions they can take.

If your child or student has been a victim of bullying, encourage them to speak up! If your school needs an anti-bullying program that teaches students to stand up & speak up you can request more information about The little man and big man anti-bullying campaign.