Message from the Office of Cultural Diversity
Preventing Bullying
It is estimated that 1 in 4 children are bullied each year in American Middle schools (American Justice Department). Programs are beginning to be funded to help address this issue in schools, though the most powerful intervention is the one parents can provide in their own homes.
Children who bully often have low self-esteem, anger issues and feelings of powerlessness over their lives. The emotional discomfort these bullies experience often gets transferred onto peers because they do not have a safe place to express their feelings.
Parents are able to dramatically reduce bullying in schools simply by taking time out to listen to their children and explore healthy problem solving skills together.
Ways to prevent your child from becoming a bully:
- Model non-violent behavior as a parent
- Clearly state that violence is not acceptable
- Discuss healthy problem solving with your teen on a regular basis
- Listen, Listen, Listen
- Seek help from mental health professionals/counselors in your teen’s school to help support your teen in non-violent conflict resolution
Ways to prevent your child from becoming a victim of bullying:
- Promote self-confidence in your teen
- Help your teen establish healthy social skills
- Teach your teen to speak out against aggressive behavior
- Listen, Listen, Listen
- Encourage your teen to seek help if harassed or intimidated at school
Springfield Public Schools will continue to assist parents and students with bullying and other issues that could interfere with student success. Feel free to contact your building administrator about issues before they get out of control.
Dr. Nate Quinn
Coordinator of Cultural Diversity
Springfield Public Schools