3-Minute Guru


 Tuesday, May 4, 2011
Protect kids from bullying - listen to them

BY CHERIE BENJOSEPH AND SALLY BERENZWEIG

The stats say one in five children are bullied. But many cases go unreported; many children remain silent.

There are so many children suffering in silence, then killing themselves that there's a name for it: bullicide.

Are we becoming so desensitized to hearing these stories that we, as parents, are just glossing over the problem?

These children are feeling similar emotions to those of abused children: fear, shame, embarrassment, confusion, humiliation. And they are not sharing that with their parents.

How can we protect them if they don't tell?
  •  Talk with your children and actively listen to them on a daily basis - not a onetime conversation.
  •  Be alert to changes in behavior, mood, and grades.
  •  Don't assume your children know you are there for them. Tell them regularly that you are available to talk/listen about anything (and list some tough issues, including bullying). Say to them directly, "Even if I seem busy when it comes to your safety or problems, I will stop what I am doing to talk with you and to help. We will deal with it together."

This simple phrase, "I am here for you, and you are important to me" can make all the difference to a child who is suffering.


Local moms Sally Berenzweig and Cherie Benjoseph are the creators of the KidSafe personal safety education program, which is taught in preschools and elementary schools throughout South Florida. Sally and Cherie also offer seminars for parents in schools (read about a recent session in our blog) and corporations and workshops for teachers. Visit their nonprofit foundation's website at www.kidsafefoundation.org, "like" it on Facebook and follow them on Twitter @KidSafeMoms.
  • The KidSafe Foundation is hosting Cocktails for a Cause at 7:30 p.m. May 10 at Cut 432 in Delray Beach. $25 in advance; $30 at the door. Details and tickets at KidSafeFoundation.org.