Bullying is to hurt, single out, intimidate, or threaten another person or group of people. It can take the form of:
- Name calling, teasing
- Hitting, pinching, kicking, pushing, pulling
- Abusive text messages or e-mails
- Ignoring
- Forcing to give money
- Being harassed because of race, appearance, religion, sexuality, disability
- Spreading rumours
- Threats and intimidation
- Happy slapping
- Sudden fear or reluctance to go to school
- Ripped or torn clothing at the end of the school day
- Frequent cuts or bruises and excuses to explain them
- Lost lunch money or possessions and excuses you have trouble believing
- Spending more time alone
- Grades that begin to fall
- Spending less time doing activities once enjoyed
- Changes in sleeping or eating
- Physical complaints
- Looking and acting sad
- Talk - Let your child know you know something's wrong
- Listen - Encourage your child to talk
- Support - Let your child know it's not their fault
- Protect - If your child is in physical danger, talk to the school authorities
- Encourage - Suggest your child talk to the bully (only if he is not in physical danger)
- Reach out - Tell a teacher or guidance counsellor if necessary
Bullying is very hurtful and can make a person feel scared and upset. It causes a person to lose confidence and they may try to avoid going to school. It can also make a person sick. Everyone has the right to feel safe and secure and no one deserves to be bullied.
Most bullies are either: afraid, jealous, insecure, envious, angry, cruel or unhappy. No matter what the reason is for the bullying, it should not happen.