ON THE SUBJECT OF BULLYING …

ON THE SUBJECT OF BULLYING

ON THE SUBJECT OF BULLYING

Although they aren't "scholarly works" by anyone's definition, there are many popular magazines that contain articles that are well written and provide a wealth of good information, suggestions and tips. Case in point: recently, I ran across an excellent article in the September, 2010 issue of Family Circle entitled, "Bully Pulpit", by Rosalind Wiseman (Queen Bees and Wannabes). This article immediately piqued my interest since bullying is a significant issue for many students with AD/HD and Asperger's. The article is "chuck full" of great advice for both parents of children who are being bullied and parents of those who are witnesses to bullying (I love the section entitled, "Don't let the bystander off the hook").

Her number one suggestion: "Skip the Easy Answers: Don't tell a kid who's being targeted, "Walk Away", "Be nice," "Ignore it." Aside from the fact that this advice doesn't work, it doesn't help the child build the skills to competently face disrespectful people. The article goes on to give great suggestions on how to take your response to the next level whether that be going to the school or bringing in the police (Underscoring one piece of advice I always give to parents: make every effort to cooperate and resolve the issue amicably, but be prepared in case you need to take the matter to a higher level. How? As Ms. Wiseman recommends, be ready with written documentation. Keep careful notes, from the start, of all the efforts both you and your child have made to resolve the problem).

Check it out! The article is Part One of the magazine's "Bullying Special Report" (I can't wait to see what they have to say in part two!). And, while you're there, check out the suggestions on page 78 that deal with social media tools and bullying. My personal favorite: Set up a Google Alert (google.com/alerts) to tell you when your child's name is mentioned on the Internet. This can help you know if they're being bullied or if rumors are being spread about them online.

From our lips to God's ears Here's to a safe, "bully-free" school year!

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