Find a calm moment to explain that their behavior is hurting others. Show them that you care about them and want to help them understand the consequences of their actions.
Implement consequences without punishment
If the behavior is unacceptable, set rules that help them reflect and improve. A good approach could be encouraging them to write a letter to the victim, expressing their thoughts and trying to put themselves in the other person’s shoes. This exercise fosters empathy and helps them understand the impact of their actions.
Encourage empathy in the classroom
Use different methods to strengthen mutual understanding and respect among students.
Offer support
Encourage the student who is bullying to express their emotions in a healthy way. Often, such behavior stems from frustration or dissatisfaction that they may not know how to process properly.
Inform school leadership
If the bullying continues and does not improve, do not hesitate to inform other teachers or the school administration. Together, you can find solutions to improve the situation and support all students involved.
Monitor their behavior
Have regular conversations with the student to track their progress. Ask how they are feeling and provide feedback on their behavior. This shows that you care about them and appreciate their efforts to change.
Praise positive changes
If you notice improvements, acknowledge and reinforce them! Positive feedback can be highly motivating and help them feel that change is possible. This fosters a supportive environment where they can grow.
How can you help your students stay safe online?
Use privacy settings
Encourage students to keep their profiles on private and to regularly check their privacy settings.
Create secure passwords
Teach them to use strong passwords that include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols to protect their accounts.
Protect personal information
Explain why they should avoid sharing sensitive details, such as their address, phone number, or school name, online
Be cautious with friend requests
Advise them to accept friend requests only from people they know in real life to avoid interactions with strangers.
Report cyberbullying
Foster an open environment where students feel comfortable reporting any form of online harassment, whether through digital platforms or directly to a trusted adult.
Recognize warning signs
Teach students to identify inappropriate messages and to reach out to a trusted adult if they feel uncomfortable.
Keep evidence
Remind students to take screenshots of offensive messages or incidents so they have proof if needed.
Encourage ‘Digital Detox’ breaks
Promote regular breaks from social media and screen time to reduce stress and enhance overall well-being.
Keep communication open
Create a climate where students feel safe talking about their online experiences and raising concerns or questions.
Teach critical thinking
Help students distinguish between trustworthy and questionable online content, encouraging them to think critically about what they see on the internet.
Countering Bullying: Strategies for Prevention and Intervention
The School as a Support System
It is crucial that teachers and schools show understanding rather than placing blame. An empathetic approach helps students feel safe and supported. The school should act as a source of guidance in finding solutions and supporting students through difficult times. When teachers respond constructively, they can build trust and encourage affected students to speak openly about their experiences.
Mood Barometer
Projects like the mood barometer help place students’ emotions and well-being at the center. When students feel supported, they are more likely to open up about their feelings and problems. To learn more, you can register with IFEN to request an observation at Vichten Primary School, where this project has been successfully implemented. There, you can gain valuable insights and ideas to establish similar initiatives in your own classroom.
Take the Situation Seriously
Listen actively
Show students that their experiences matter to you. Take the time to talk to them, listen carefully, and create a safe space where they can express their thoughts and emotions.
Stay calm and understanding
Show empathy and make it clear that bullying has no place in your classroom. Encouraging students to speak openly about their feelings helps them feel less alone.
Create a ‘Safe Space’
Establish a place or specific time in the classroom where students feel comfortable and secure discussing their concerns. Let them know that it is okay to be vulnerable and to ask for help.
Set clear rules
Organize group activities that strengthen bonds between students and help them develop positive relationships. These moments of connection can significantly improve the classroom environment.
Plan team-building activities
Organize group activities that strengthen bonds between students and help them develop positive relationships. These moments of connection can significantly improve the classroom environment.
Conduct workshops and discussions
Contact EducDesign to arrange a discussion session about bullying and cyberbullying. These workshops allow students to share their experiences and find solutions together.
Conduct workshops and discussions
Be attentive to students’ behavior and remain sensitive to signs of distress. Hold regular check-ins to see how they are feeling and whether they feel safe at school.
Be a role model
Demonstrate respectful behavior in your interactions with students and others. Your students will follow your example, so it is essential to embody the values you wish to promote.
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