The nationwide movement ‘National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence’ is tomorrow, Friday 18th August. Chief Executive Officer of yourtown, Tracy Adams urges everyone to think about how we can develop stronger connections within our communities to foster positive, help-seeking behaviour, and stop bullying in its tracks.
“Whether you are a parent, teacher, student or member of the broader community, everyone has a role to play in preventing the bullying of children,” said Ms Adams.
In 2022, one in 10 Kids Helpline @ School sessions delivered by counsellors to primary schools focused on bullying or cyberbullying, with a total 109 sessions being held.
When a young person reaches out to a trusted adult to tell them they are being bullied, they should be heard and taken seriously. Parents play a critical role in bullying prevention by role modelling positive behaviours and also providing the space for their children to connect and talk openly about this issue. By encouraging connection and discussion about bullying, parents are also role modelling how children should talk about and approach the issue with their peers when they see it happen.
“We encourage parents not only to lead by example by demonstrating respect, but to educate themselves about how and where bullying is conducted, including online, and to look out for the signs that something might be worrying their child. A really good way to ‘open the connection’ with children is to go through some of the tips and information on the Kids Helpline website.”
Kids Helpline is specifically for children and young people aged 5 to 25 years. www.kidshelpline.com.au or free call 1800 55 1800.