Celebrating inclusion and kindness: October is National Bullying Prevention Month

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, October brings more than just autumn – it marks the start of National Bullying Prevention Month. In an effort to create a safe and inclusive world, schools and communities participate in activities designed to prevent bullying throughout October. 

Understanding bullying

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC): Preventing Bullying, 1 in 5 high school students are bullied, and more than 1 in 6 reported being cyberbullied in the past year. Bullying is a negative behavior done to hurt, harm or humiliate someone. There is often a power imbalance between those involved, with power being defined as elevated social status, being physically larger or being part of a group against an individual. Bullying takes on various forms, including physical, verbal, relational or social, damage to property, and cyberbullying. Its impact is far-reaching, causing emotional distress, affecting mental health, impeding personal growth, and sometimes even death. 

What can you do?

You can take many actionable steps to promote an inclusive and safe environment for all. Here are some ideas.

• Inclusive education: Spread awareness about the different forms of bullying, its impact, and ways to prevent it. Instruct children about empathy, respect, inclusion, and coping strategies at a young age. 
• Bystander training: Equip children with the skills to be active bystanders by teaching them how to intervene when they witness bullying, fostering a sense of responsibility.
• Open dialogue: Encourage open conversations about bullying, mental health, and the importance of reporting incidents. Create safe spaces where individuals feel comfortable sharing their experiences. 
• Technology awareness: Educate individuals about cyberbullying and online safety. Teach responsible internet use and the importance of standing up against online harassment.
• Creative expression: Encourage artistic outlets like drawing, writing, or drama to help children express their feelings and experiences in a supportive environment.
• Promote disability awareness: Educate others about different disabilities, emphasizing the importance of acceptance and understanding.
• Inclusive storytelling and education: Share stories and experiences of individuals from minority backgrounds to promote empathy and reduce stereotypes. Incorporate LGBTQS+ history and perspectives into conversation to promote understanding and respect for diversity.
• Intergenerational storytelling sessions are a beautiful way to connect allowing older adults to share their life experiences and fostering mutual respect between generations.
• Social media campaigns: Utilize the power of social media for good to spread awareness about bullying prevention, sharing stories, tips, and resources.

Bullying prevention takes a village. By fostering empathy, celebrating diversity, and advocating for inclusion, we can work together to create a world where bullying has no place. Together, we can make a difference and pave the way for a brighter, more empathetic future.

Sources for information in this article and additional information on bullying prevention can be found at How to Prevent Bullying | StopBullying.gov and PACER's National Bullying Prevention Center.