Our school is taking part in Anti-Bullying Week this term between Monday 15th–Friday 19th November.
Anti-Bullying Week helps schools across England to shine a spotlight on bullying and encourage all children, teachers and parents to take action against bullying throughout the year. The theme this year is ‘One Kind Word’.
In a world that can sometimes feel like it’s filled with negativity, one kind word can provide a moment of hope. It can be a turning point. It can change someone’s perspective. It can change their day. It can change the course of a conversation and break the cycle of bullying. Best of all, one kind word leads to another. Kindness fuels kindness. So from the playground to Parliament, and from our phones to our homes, together, our actions can fire a chain reaction that powers positivity. It starts with one kind word.
So, what can you do to support us to stop bullying and participate in Anti-Bullying Week?
TOP TIPS FOR PARENTS AND CARERS
o If your child is being bullied, don’t panic. Explain to your child that the bullying is not their fault and together you will sort this out.
o Bullying is never acceptable; and should always be taken seriously. It is never your child’s fault if they’ve been bullied.
o Try and establish the facts. It can be helpful to keep a diary of events. If the bullying is online, save or copy images and text.
o Find out what your child wants to happen. Help to identify steps you can take; and the skills they have to help sort out the situation. Make sure you always keep them informed about any actions you decide to take.
o You may be tempted to tell your child to retaliate but this can have unpredictable results. Your child might get into trouble or get even more hurt. Rather - role play nonviolent ways they can respond to children that are bullying them (e.g. “I don’t like it when you say that to me / do that to me. Stop.”); show them how to block or unfriend people if the bullying is online and help them identity other friends or adults that can support them.
o Encourage your child to get involved in activities atet build their confidence and esteem, and help them to form friendships outside of school (or wherever the bullying is taking place).
(https://anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk/sites/default/files/uploads/attachments/Anti-Bullying_Top_tips_for_parents_and_carers.pdf)