You may not have noticed, but when the subject of bullying comes up during conversations, people immediately relate a personal experience or one their child may have had. These episodes can stay with us for life. And, while people appreciate my tackling this subject, they wonder how my simple anti-bullying program could help in a world where bullying seems to run rampant. It’s because I’m trying to reach the very young students—those in elementary school. These are the students who need help learning to socialize with everyone, regardless of their appearance or lack of ability. These little ones don’t understand the concept of “you can’t do or say to others what you may be able to do or say to your siblings at home.” They can feel embarrassed at being corrected for a behavior they didn’t realize was inappropriate. However, if ALL the students are learning good social behaviors together—one subject at a time—they won’t feel they are the only ones who “didn’t know” or “understand” something. I’d love to hear from parents of children who have been bullied, especially for something a child can’t change—their red hair, large ears, missing teeth, skin color, lisping, eye shape, nationality. We can help even if we start small with my program!
Butterfield Stories — Start Small
