Bullying is a complex and relevant topic in today’s society when it comes to challenging behavior. According to stopbullying.gov, “Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time” (n.d., para. 1). In order to be able to have a positive effect on children who are bullying others, or who are being bullied, we must understand what bullying is, how it develops, and how we can prevent it.
Read Bullying Prevention Strategies in Early Childhood EducationLinks to an external site..
Choose one of the options below to watch a video (or videos) of a reading of a picture book on bullying:
Bully by Patricia Polacco Pt 1, Read by Mrs. SentalLinks to an external site. and Bully by Patricia Polacco Pt 2, Read by Mrs. SentalLinks to an external site.
Chrysanthemum by Kevin HenkesLinks to an external site.
One by Kathryn OtoshiLinks to an external site.
WingsLinks to an external site.
In your initial response,
Provide the title of the picture book you watched in the first line of your post.
Define bullying.
Explain your role in helping to prevent bullying with the children you work with.
Describe how you would use the chosen picture book story to teach strategies about bullying.
Sample Answer
Bullying, as defined by stopbullying.gov, is "unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time" (n.d., para. 1).
My role in helping to prevent bullying with the children I work with is multifaceted and proactive. First and foremost, I aim to create a safe, inclusive, and empathetic environment where children feel comfortable expressing themselves and seeking help. This involves establishing clear rules about respectful behavior and consistently enforcing them. I also actively teach social-emotional skills such as empathy, conflict resolution, and communication. By fostering these skills, I empower children to understand and manage their own emotions, as well as to recognize and respond appropriately to the emotions of others. I model positive interactions and encourage children to stand up for themselves and for others in a constructive manner. Furthermore, I am vigilant in observing children's interactions, identifying potential bullying behaviors early on, and intervening promptly and appropriately. This might involve individual conversations with the children involved, working with parents, or implementing specific strategies to address the behavior. My ultimate goal is to equip children with the tools they need to navigate social situations effectively and to contribute to a culture of kindness and respect.
I would use the picture book One by Kathryn Otoshi to teach strategies about bullying in several ways. The story's simplicity and powerful visual metaphors make it highly accessible for young children.