WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE BEING BULLIED
If you are being bullied, it is important to remember that you are not alone. Unfortunately, bullying is all too common in today's classrooms. It is often difficult to know what to do in this situation, but there are a few steps that you can take to help you cope with the bullying.
i. Firstly, try to remain calm; bullying is about making the person feel bad, and showing that it does not bother you is the best way to take the power away from the bully.
ii. Secondly, if you can, walk away. By turning and walking away, you show that you won't give in to the bully's taunts and can help to de-escalate the situation.
iii. Finally, reach out to someone you trust. Whether it is a friend, a teacher, or an administrator, talking to someone you trust can help you feel less isolated.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU WITNESS BULLYING
It can be intimidating to stand up to bullies when you witness them in action, but speaking up is often the most effective way to stop the bullying. Here are a few tips for standing up to a bully:
i. Remain calm. A heated response won't help the situation.
ii. Speak out. Let the bully know that their actions are wrong, and that they should stop.
iii. If necessary, offer help. Ask the person being bullied if they need help, and let the bully know that others don't approve of their behavior.
iv. Report the bullying. If the behavior continues, be sure to report it to a teacher, administrator, or other trusted adult.
HOW TO CREATE A POSITIVE ENVIRONMENT IN THE CLASSROOM
Bullying will not stop until we create a culture in our classrooms that celebrates acceptance and diversity. Here are a few ways you can help foster a positive environment:
i. Make sure everyone is included. In order to create an environment of acceptance, everyone should be made to feel welcome and included.
ii. Encourage respect. Respectful behavior should be encouraged and practiced in the classroom, and students should be reminded that bullying is not acceptable.
iii. Provide support. Create a safe, supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable to express their ideas and opinions.
iv. Be a role model. Be a good role model for your students, and practice what you preach.
By following these steps, we can create classrooms where everyone feels respected and accepted.