Bullying is NOT Okay

A Message from Kevin Teeley, President, Lake Washington Education Association. 

Bullying is NOT Okay

Bullying is when one child or a group of children repeatedly picks on another child – often one who is seen as weaker and more vulnerable. Bullying can be about any real or imagined difference a child might have and is different from fighting and teasing. What makes it different is the way the bully repeatedly shows power over the other child. Bullies try to control other children by using scare tactics. Being controlled and repeatedly picked on can make your child a victim.

Girls, as well as boys, can be involved in bullying. The child will pick on other children by teasing, threatening, or attacking them repeatedly. Some will also exclude their victims from activities or start rumors about them.

Bullying often happens at school – in the halls, at lunch, while on the playground – especially when no adult is supervising. It can also occur traveling to and from school or in the neighborhood.

Bullies often pick on children who make them feel powerful by acting very emotional or giving in.

To stop bullying, adults must step in and take a stand against it. Children need and want the help of trusted adults in dealing with bullying. Don't wait until children are teens. Intervening at an early age prevents more severe bullying later on. Talk to your kids about bullying even if you don't think they are victims, bullies, or bystanders.

Remember, simply by asking your children about bullying, you are protecting them. Ask how things are going at school and what they think of the other kids in their classes. Ask if anyone gets picked on or bullied. Be aware that some kids who are bullied will fear going to school or develop symptoms of asthma, stomach pains, or other illness.

For more information, we encourage you to go to the NEA website and type Bullying in the search box.