The school year has started; this is the perfect time for parents to sit down with their children and discuss proper behavior and how we treat others. Let’s promote kindness, acceptance and inclusion.
According to bullyingstatistics.org some things that parents can do to teach their children not to bully include: Set a good example by not bullying or intimidating others; talk to your child about the fact that bullying is wrong and hurts other people; make clear family rules about what bullying is and that any form of bullying is not acceptable; explain the consequences if anyone bullies, and be sure that you follow through on the consequences any time this rule is broken; spend time with your child and ask questions about their friends and activities; monitor your child’s behavior, including cell phone and social media usage; watch for and praise any times that they use positive social interactions; ask your school about their bullying policy and how they will address bullying during the year; and encourage your school to post their policy on the school website if it is not there already.
According to a study published in February journal PLOS ONE, being a victim of bullying can be associated with mental distress and suicide attempts in teens. School bullying is a common problem, with research estimating that as many as 30 percent of American youth suffer. Examples of bullying vary and include cyberbullying, social bullying, and bullying based on race and sexual orientation. Hurtful sexual jokes and comments correlate significantly to mental distress and suicide attempts. Being bullied may have a lasting effect on students’ well-being, health and social adjustment.
For info visit the Jason Foundation at prp.jasonfoundation.com.