Taking a Stance Against Bullying

BULLYING: A SOCIAL STUDIES TOPIC

By: Meaghan Brenna Foley

October 28, 2014

Bullying is a universal issue. People of all ages, races, cultures, and ethnicities experience bullying. In my opinion, bullying is absolutely shameful and should be stomped out of existence. No one should be made to feel inferior by another. We are all human beings who deserve to be respected at all times. I believe that anti-bullying campaigns should be established early on in a child's education. The earlier children learn the difference between right and wrong, the better. There are a number of resources containing activities that teachers could implement in the classroom. I researched a number of educational websites and tools. Below are some of my findings, observations, and comments.

This noteworthy video teaches children, teens, and adults about "netiquette," or playing nice on the internet. It is important to always teach children to use positive words and keep negative thoughts to themselves. Children must develop their pragmatics, or social skills, with others.

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. There are numerous organizations that can participate in bringing about awareness to Stomp Out Bullying. It is especially important for schools to observe October as National Bullying Prevention Month.

 STOMP Out Bullying is a well known organization that seeks to prevent bullying and cyberbullying amongst children and teens in the United States. Some of their influential slogans include: 

STAND UP FOR OTHERS

BE A LEADER

BE KIND

RESPECT OTHERS

BE TOLERANT

HONOR OUR DIFFERENCES

COMPLIMENT A FELLOW STUDENT

ASK THE NEW KID TO JOIN YOU

CELEBRATE OUR SIMILARITIES

BE BRAVE

PACER Center's Kids Against Bullying is another wonderful resource I found that is interactive and allows children to learn about bullying and how they can join the cause. This site also has a discussion forum that allows children (bullies & bullying victims) to post their thoughts and experiences related to the subject of bullying. This interactive site also includes supportive anti-bullying videos from popular children's figures. Other positive elements on the site include quizzes, a petition against bullying, and so much more! I would definitely recommend this site to children of all ages: from elementary school to high school.

Taking the pledge to stomp bullying out of existence should be every child, parent, and teacher's main priority! As a former bullying victim, I proudly take the pledge! :)

In my opinion, bullying should be addressed in unique and age-appropriate ways in order to established   understanding for all grade levels.

GRADES K-3

The Friendship Wreath is a nice interactive activity that I found on Pinterest. Pinterest is such a wonderful tool full of brilliant educational activities! I think that the younger students would really enjoy participating in this activity. This activity promotes unity and friendship; therefore, teaching children to accept each other's differences. :)

GRADES 3+

I think this poster would be beneficial for students starting in Grade 3+. This poster will teach children to always think before they speak. Words can hurt; therefore, always ask yourself: 

Is it true?

Is it helpful?

Is it inspiring?

Is it necessary?

Is it kind?

This poster targets teens and adults on social media: THINK BEFORE YOU POST!

READING 

Reading is another interactive way to bring about awareness associated with bullying. There are many anti-bullying books that could be utilized during any classroom subject (i.e., Social Studies, English, Math, and Science). 

In my opinion, bullying is a very important issue that should not be dealt with lightly! As a future educator, I strongly support all anti-bullying campaigns and organizations. Children need to feel safe and comfortable at school, at home, and in the community.  I will make it my goal to spread the message of equality and acceptance in society to stomp out bullying. :)