It’s back-to-school day, AKA “the most wonderful time of the year” for parents. However, for some parents, that’s not the case.
This morning, as most kids across the country filled their backpacks with new supplies, put on new clothes, and looked forward to seeing old friends, some kids were filled with apprehension and even fear about a new school year because of one thing: bullies.
These kids aren’t alone; sadly parents are feeling the same way as well. According to a CBC poll today, bullying is the number one back-to-school anxiety for parents.
The good news is that there are steps parents can take to help put their minds, and their kids’ minds, at ease. The Canadian Red Cross Violence and Abuse Prevention program provides the following bullying prevention tips for parents:
- Teach your children that if they see someone being bullied, they should not watch, laugh or join in.
- Pay attention to the relationships in your children’s groups. Ensure all children are included and that inappropriate behaviours are addressed.
- Help kids see the value of offering empathy and support to those who are bullied.
- Work with your child’s school to educate others about the problem of bullying.
- Be a good example for your children. Model respectful behaviours at home and in your daily interactions.
Bullying can be stopped just by standing up. On the playground, telling might be viewed as tattling, but it’s not the same thing. Tattling is done to get others in trouble, while telling is done to get help either for you or someone else. Let kids know that it’s always ok to tell.
Check out more bullying prevention tips here.
We wish everyone a happy and safe school year!