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Kidscape Kids Bake
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Downloads
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What ELSE Can I do?
Actions
At School
To support your child’s school’s efforts to create a community where bullying is discouraged, you might try some of these suggestions.
- Ask to see your school’s Anti-Bullying policy. Schools are required by law to have one, and available to all. In our experience, the best policies outline behaviour expectations, and the consequences when these are violated. Be alert if you see references to meetings between the bully and the bullied, especially without parents present.
- Encourage other parents to meet together, both for fun and for learning. The better parents know each other, the easier it is to work together, especially if there is a difficult situation in the offing. Bullying children often come from families where they are bullied.
- Educate - have a PTA evening devoted to bullying. Offer to run it–we’ll help you. You will be surprised how many parents remember their own experiences, and will have a great interest in the topic. There are many publications on the Kidscape website that can be downloaded and used to prompt discussion. Even if people disagree–you’ll know where they stand.if you meet reactions like–“Bullying is part of life.” “Take it on the chin”–you can acknowledge that attitude, but also mention
- Now is the time to help involve the whole school in being aware and on guard against bullying. You can download a model letter that suggests the school involve themselves with programs for this week. Most schools plan much in advance, so send it as soon as the year begins. Volunteer to help–lead discussion groups, lead a craft club to make friendship bracelets, help the children set up a fund-raising stand.
- Recognize the school’s efforts–if a teacher handles a situation well, if a head comes up with a good solution to the playground riot–drop a note or say a good word.
- Volunteer at school, from the first year. You will get to know the children and the staff, and see for yourself what the atmosphere is like.
- Volunteer to distribute some of Kidscape’s pamphlets at the GP’s office, the library, or other places. We’ll help provide you with some this week.
