4 Ways to Do Your Part in Preventing Bullying in Schools
October is National Bullying Prevention month, and as a Christian school in Loveland, we couldn’t let the month pass us by without opening a discussion about how important it is to ensure that our schools are free of bullies and our students are safe and protected. We want our students, teachers, parents, and staff to feel encouraged and confident about intervening if they ever see bullying behavior in the classroom or hallways. In today’s blog, we’ll go over 4 ways you can do your part in preventing bullying, not just at Resurrection Christian School, but anywhere. Keep reading to learn more.
Be Knowledgable & Observant
The first step to take in preventing bullying in our school is to become more aware of it in the first place. As a teacher or administrator, it’s essential to understand that bullying generally happens in areas like the bathroom, playground, or school bus. Teachers should emphasize to students that telling is not tattling and that if anyone witnesses bullying behavior anywhere at school, outside, or at home — they should immediately report it.
Set a Positive Example
As a parent, you can play a major role in stopping bullying before it happens. Children often learn behaviors from their parents, and being exposed to aggressive behavior or an overly strict environment at home can make kids more prone to being a bully at school. If you notice signs that your child is being bullied, it’s important to be there for them, listening to their concerns and ensuring that you take the necessary action steps to rectify the situation.
Don’t Bully Back
As students, it may be hard not to stand up for kids that are getting bullied by bullying back. Parents and teachers can also stress this importance — bullying a bully is never the answer. Instead, report the bullying behavior to a teacher or administrator so that it can be handled appropriately and prevented in the future.
Cyberbullying Awareness
In today’s world, most students have cell phones and computers, and cyberbullying can be even more harmful. Be sure to have open-ended conversations with your students or children about cyberbullying and set boundaries with their access to technology. Proper filters can also be set up on their devices so that you can monitor their usage and behavior. As always, report any bullying to the school, teachers, or administrators so that we can work together to find a solution.
Have you had a conversation with your child lately about bullying? This month may be the perfect time to ask questions and talk to your kids about what they can do to prevent bullying. As you’re dropping off your kids this week, be aware, and of course, report any bullying behavior that you see so that we can work together to create a safe and comfortable environment for all of our students at RCS.
“I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
John 13:34-35