October is National Bullying Prevention Month. There are many types of conflicts we can learn to avoid with the right set of social skills. Bullying is one type of conflict that includes three different variables.
This month in 4th grade we are learning how bystanders can use their power to make responsible choices if they find themselves in a situation involving bullying.
If you are a bystander to bullying, you have a choice to make. If you choose to do nothing to make the situation better, you are choosing to be a part of the problem. It is irresponsible to not help when you witness someone getting bullied.
We discussed a few situations from our lesson materials where bullying was happening. Then, we practiced what we might do or say to be a responsible bystander.
A responsible bystander is someone who chooses to: (REPORT-REFUSE-SUPPORT)
REPORTS or helps report bullying to an adult. Reporting is different from tattling. Reporting is getting help for a target of bullying. It’s also helpful for the person doing the bullying to know others think it’s wrong. It's the school staff’s job to keep students safe. We want to know if bullying is happening so we can help.
Stands up for someone being bullied. This can mean talking to the person doing the bullying in the moment or later when you can talk without an audience. Sometimes the bully is a friend who may listen to you.
Is respectful and kind. You can talk to the victim and ask them if they’re okay. Tell them you don’t like what happened. Refuse to be a part of the bullying
Includes everyone. Ask the victim to play with you or sit by them at lunch to help them know there are others who care about what happens to them. Support the victim by including them.
Thank you for discussing the three factors that define bullying with your child along with how they can become a responsible bystander if needed. We want EVERYONE to feel safe and respected as an important member of our SGR family.
REPORT-REFUSE-SUPPORT
It’s important not to use the same disrespectful words or actions that the bully uses when trying to refuse to be a part of the bullying and support the victim.