Sheila Rae offers a wonderful bullying program based the concept of the television show, "Smarter than a Fifth Grader." The students learn about bullying and how we all need to work together to stop bullying.
Statistically those who bully in elementary school are more likely to need government assistance when they get older. Bullies lack the necessary self- esteem that helps make them successful in their adult life. Bullies also do not have many friends as they get older. As young children, kids hold bullies in a higher regard (some say that is because they fear being targeted themselves) but as these kids get older the bullies loose that higher rank and many end up without friends.
Bullies are also more likely to be convicted of a criminal act by age 24 and the courts can charge these children with a criminal act by the age of 12.
What do these facts have to do with good kids? First of all the kids that are targeted are more likely to miss school on a regular basis or go home from school because of stomach problems or headaches.
Secondly as parents and school personal we need to watch for kids that are by themselves. Children that are loners are the most likely target. Some school officials say it is hard to catch the bullies in action, they are right. Bullies are very good at what they do; statistically they only harass the child for under a minute. So catching them can be quite the challenge that is why we all need to work together for our children.
Another form of bullying that so many people do not see as a big issue is leaving children out of activities. But think about it makes us feel if we are not picked or included in an activity. Bullying in a very subtle form!
