We partnered with JIMMY Patterson Books to share this post. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Growing up is harder than ever. The standards seem higher. The struggles seem more intense. Social media is partly to blame, but we can’t put all the blame there. The fault lies in not completely understanding or caring how words or actions can absolutely devastate someone’s life. Each time I hear of a teen that committed suicide because of someone else’s words, I’m reminded why it’s important to teach children not to bully.
The biggest lie ever told to me was, “Sticks and stones may break your bones but words can never hurt you“. We may be able to tell ourselves that words don’t hurt, but the truth is that so much power lies in the tongue. The words that come out of the mouth have incredible power. We can make someone feel on top of the world, or we can make someone feel like they’re nothing in this world simply by the words we speak.
When we teach children not to bully, we are planting good seed for future generations. Will you join me in making a better future for our children?
How to Teach Children Not to Bully
It can be disheartening to find out that your child has been picking on other children. As difficult as the news may be, how you handle it is incredibly important. It’s critical that you begin to get to the root of bullying so that you know how to properly address the situation.
Take bullying seriously!
It’s not something to ignore or take lightly. Let your children know that bullying will not be tolerated and that there will be strict consequences for any type of bullying behavior. Make them aware of potential consequences that bullying might bring. It could cause them to think twice before treating someone else unkindly.
Set a good example!
Your children will most likely emulate the type of behavior they see in their parents. Set a good example for your children and make sure to treat everyone with respect and kindness. Teach them how to be the type of children that other kids look up to by treating others the way they would like to be treated.
Encourage them to be kind!
It’s important to teach and encourage our children to embrace the differences of others. It’s those differences that make us all incredibly unique and special. Encourage them to be kind to the child someone is making fun of. Encourage them to be a friend when no one else will.
Be real with them!
I know that sometimes we try to shield our children from the real world that is out there. But when it comes to bullying it’s important that we be as real as possible with them. There are real consequences to bullying and they need to know what their actions could potentially cause.
Be involved!
Kids bully for a number of reasons. If you’re deeply involved in their lives, it will be easier to find the reason they feel the need to bully. Some bully because they feel insecure. Some bully because they want to fit in. Some bully because that’s what they see at home.
With three children, we occasionally deal with name calling and being mean. We try to redirect anger or frustration with other avenues of release, like just walking away. It’s in our nature to react when we’re provoked, but learning how to redirect those frustrations or anger will help even into adulthood. It’s an important lesson we’re working on with our children.
Pottymouth and Stoopid were the names given to David and his best friend, Michael, during preschool. This book is their story, from the very beginning. It’s a great read for upper elementary students and middleschoolers from bestselling authors James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein. There is humor, there is truth, and there is friendship. What’s not to love?
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No More Awful Nicknames! In partnership with Jimmy Patterson Books, I’m so excited to offer you a fun giveaway just in time for back-to-school season. One (1) winner will receive a copy of Pottymouth and Stoopid plus a personalized-name Lands End backpack! To enter, use the widget below.
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
This is such a great post. One thing I’ve learned is that kids can be accidental bullies as well as intentional ones. Kids can get so pushy and say whatever comes into their minds. It’s easy for them to hurt another child’s feelings.
Bill Sweeney says
Excellent tips here. There seems to have been an entire generation of bullies born recently. We need to teach the little ones we have now to value and respect others and not give into the temptation of social media.
Maureen says
What a brilliant topic to discuss. I think when kids grow up with siblings, it is easier to teach at home as well. I love that you are opening up the conversation with tips that parents and every adult who engages with children (teachers, guidance counselors, etc.) can use!
Rosey says
My almost ten-year-old would be the one to love this prize pack. Thanks for hosting!
Meagan says
I think it is so important to educate kids on bullying. This world is filled with kids who could change it all if they were taught the right way.
Pam Wattenbarger says
It is important to teach kids not to bully. Bullying is a really big problem these days, especially if you count cyberbullying.
Liz Mays says
These are helpful strategies. You really do have to make an effort so they understand what bullying is and what the consequences are. It’s a serious problem!
Theresa says
Every year on the first day of school we have the bullying talk with my girls. I always tell them if you see someone in need of a friend, you be that friend. I get a lot of compliments from their peers on how nice and helpful they always are to everyone, so I’m glad that we started those talks early!
Jeana says
It is so important to teach kids early about not bullying. Already, it is a concern of mine and my son hasn’t even gone to school yet. These are great tips to put kids on the right path to kindness and compassion. I will definitely have to check out this book.
Rachel Ferrucci says
Love these tips and I need to get my grandson this book!
Kelly D says
My son would love this prize pack.
Julie Wood says
My son would love this prize pack! He loves to read. Thanks for a fun giveaway!!
Jessica To says
This would be for my son. He needs something good to read this summer!
Louise Bishop says
I think setting a good example is the biggest part. Too many times kids bring what they learn from home and act it out at school.
Wendy Polisi says
I love this post! I have always thought there should be more attention on being active with our kids about not bullying.
latanya says
I would give this to my son
Tracy @ Ascending Butterfly says
As a former Special Ed Teacher I wish more parents took an active role in preventing bully behavior in their children. I had to deal with a lot of my students coming to me with bully issues from the ‘mainstream’ classes, and my job was tiring enough without having to also play referee and teach children manners which I thought they would have learned at home well BEFORE they started school. Great Post!!
Shannon T. says
I teach middle school and bullying is not taken seriously at all. It makes me sad that people are so cruel. As a mom to a son this is so important to teach early. What a wonderful opportunity.
Laurajj says
Oh our little one would love this for school this fall. I would love to use the book as a teaching tool for him to learn about bullying and what to do…and what not to do.
Bethany says
This is such an important topic. My oldest just finished Kindergarten and was bullied a few times. I was surprised that he was already encountering it at such a young age.
Desiree Lopez says
Yes! These are great things to share with our kids. I think modeling respect to other people is so critical for parents to do.
nickie says
My son would love this prize pack.
Misty Nelson Dawn says
Wow. It really looks a good book and I would love this for my son.
Lauren says
My son would like this book.
Cheryl B says
I would love to win this for my Granddaughter. I think she would enjoy the book, and after reading we would pass it along to another child to read, with the hope that do they the same.
Lisa L says
This would be great for my son. Thanks!
Annemarie LeBlanc says
This is a great book for children to read. You know what is interesting? I could not imagine how a suspense thriller writer could do a shift and write a children’s book too. That is pure talent!
Annemarie LeBlanc says
I think teaching kids not to bully should start at home. Making them learn to love and respect their siblings is the first step in teaching them to do the same with classmates. When my kids were young, bullying was usual topic of discussion in the house, like why they should not do it, and why they should tell their parents or teacher about bullying.
Our Family World says
Thank you for letting me know about this book. I believe it is a gem of a book for middle schoolers, where most of the instances of bullying happens. I will get a copy for my sister. Her kids are right about that age.
Amanda Partin says
My daughter loves the James Patterson books for kids and she would love this book. She’s experienced bullying this year and this book would help her get through it I think.
Tracy P says
My daughter and son would love to read this, thanks for he chance.
Myrna says
My son would love to read this book.
He likes this type, hopefully it’s a successful series.
Kris B says
I would love to give this to my daughter! I know she would really enjoy this book!
Sadie B. says
My daughter is starting middle school this year and would love this prize pack.
shelly says
My two girls would love this!
Maryann Perry says
I have two girls ages 8 and 9 and they love James Patterson books. Both are at the age where bullying begins and I would love for them to have this book!
Marilyn S says
My son would love this book.
Casey says
This would be a great book especially when you feel that your child would not be a bully or victim to a bully.
Rochel S says
My son would love this!!
evans s says
This would go to my son.
Shannan Guliano says
I would give this to my two boys ages 11 and 9. They could really use it!
Anita Q. says
Thanks a book would be a great tool for
My Scouts!
Cynthia Brooks says
I think my 7 yr old could use the book. Her favorite response is “It doesn’t matter.” Or, “so what.” She has a little valley girl in her sometimes. Add the backpack for bonus.
Sapana V says
I agree bullying is not good for the person not for society. We have start the teaching from our home. Good tips.
amanda whitley says
my daughter would love this because she loves reading