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The first step in preventing bullying is recognizing it. Observe, observe, observe. Be vigilant. Watch your students, be present in hallways, and “pop-in” restrooms and stairwells during class change to detect any signs of bullying. Children who are being bullied might be too scared to tell an adult, so many times it is up to you to spot it.
Teach students to respect and look out for one another. Unfortunately, respect for others is not always taught in the home, so it is up to the schools to educate children in this regard. Children that are taught to respect themselves and each other from a very early age are less likely to become bullies.
Make sure students have a trusted adult to confide in. Teach students the signs of bullying and make sure they know that if they report bullying, their information will be held in confidence and no one will know who reported it. You may also have a box where students can anonymously report signs of bullying they have observed.
Teach students, especially ones that you suspect may be victims, to avoid isolated places at school. Talk about the importance of good posture and maintaining eye contact. Many times bullies choose victims they perceive to be weaker than others. If they present themselves as strong, even if they do not necessarily feel confident, they will be less attractive targets for bullies. Let students know that is OK to leave a situation where they feel threatened. They do not have to obey a bully.
Take students fears seriously. Teachers are busy, and they are getting busier everyday. However, there is absolutely nothing in a teacher’s job that is more important than making sure students have an environment in which they feel safe. Learning will not take place if a child feels threatened. So, take the time to listen to their fears if they voice them. Then act on that information. Sometimes it may turn out to be nothing, but many times, you will save a child from days of fear and humiliation.
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How to Prevent Bullying
This four part series on bullying addresses buly prevention, recognizing bullying behavior and looks at why some children turn to bullying.