by Dr. Jenny Hung PGY-1
October was National Bullying Prevention Month.
3 Things to remind our parents and children about bullying… inspiration and quotes by Mr. Rogers.
1. Find the helpers
When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”
Whenever we are in a situation that scares us, it is good to remember to look for the helpers, this includes teachers, counselors, other classmates, friends, and family. It may be helpful to help your child identify a safe person at school who can help when bullying occurs.
2. It’s you I love.
You don’t have to do anything sensational for people to love you.
With issues such as childhood loneliness and school violence on the rise, it is important that children feel valued and appreciated simply for being who they are. This can be accomplished by providing a safe space for child to be heard and to express any of their concerns. This is also an opportunity for parents to display and communicate unconditional love for their children.
3. Be a good neighbor.
We live in a world in which we need to share responsibility. It’s easy to say “It’s not my child, not my community, not my world, not my problem.” Then there are those who see the need and respond. I consider those people my heroes.
Stop bullying. Stand up. Speak out. For our kids.
Some great articles and resources:
www.twopedsinapod.org – Stop a Bully