STAND UP! SPEAK OUT! - Don't Be A Bystander
- Don't give bullying an audience: Oftentimes, those who bully are encouraged by the attention that they receive from bystanders. You can help stop bullying by actively not supporting it. However if the bully is not stopping tell a trusted adult.
- Set a good example: This is the simplest way to help- be a good example and DON'T BULLY PEOPLE! By doing this you are showing others people that bullying isn't okay.
- Help them get away: A bystander can offer a way for the person being bullied to leave the scene by saying something like, "Mr. Smith needs to see you right now," or "Come on, we need you for our game." Intervene only if you feel the situation is safe, and never use violence to help the victim.
- Tell a trusted adult: Bystanders can tell a trusted adult in person or leave them a note if you don't want to keep things anonymous.
- Try talking to as many adults as possible if there's a problem-- teachers, counselors, custodians, nurses, parents. The more adults they involve, the better.
- BE THEIR FRIEND: Letting them know they're not alone will help them feel secure, safer, and better about themselves.
We often think that our words said over social media can't hurt, but it sometimes is even worse. Words have strong meanings and what ever you post on the internet, you never get back.