Breaking Free From BULLYING

Parents-Protect Your Children

Parents too can start early in preparing their children to deal wisely with bullies.  They can, for example,  use role-playing games with their children to demonstrate how to project a sense of confidence.

Even physical posture-standing up straight-can send a subtle message that dissuades some bullies.   Making eye contact, keeping hands and arms relaxed, and speaking in a firms steady voice may help too. Parent are urged to teach their child to walk away, to avoid bullies, and to ask a trustworthy adult for help, such as  schoolteacher. 

Eliminating bullying behavior starts with educating the family. Parents who make themselves available to their children, listening patiently and empathetically to their children, instill in them a feeling that they are wanted, supported, and loved. Many professionals in the field of parenting and peer problems urge parents to provide their children with a positive view of themselves.  Such a healthy outlook reduces their appeal as targets in the eyes of bullies. 

But more is involved than simply talking.  Each member of the family needs to learn to treat others with respect and dignity and to cultivate  empathy. So do not tolerate any bullying behavior in your household. make your home a safe haven, where respect and love prevail.

Next time: Breaking Free From BULLYING - The End of Bullying

From the Awake! magazine, 2003