1You know that this is a problem but you’re not certain that this is a case of bullying. You decide to wait until it becomes clear that this is a bullying situation.
These situations are difficult to manage. By not reacting immediately and deciding to observe the situation a little more, you give yourself time to see if there are other signs that point to a more explicit problem.
This may already be a bullying situation. Your child’s classmate might be experiencing ongoing exclusion.
One or all of the young people involved in this situation may be uncomfortable with what is happening. This is an opportunity to maximize their ability to act as an ally. As well, there may be a chance to provide support for your child’s classmate.
2You say: "It is unfortunate that some of your classmates won’t get to join in the party." You make a decision to ensure that the excluded classmate is invited to the party.
Your compassion reflects your kindness and concern. Your decision to ensure that the excluded classmate is invited to the party shows that you care about them.
The bullying and exclusion may continue.
Although the idea of securing an invitation for the excluded classmate is full of good intentions, it is not realistic. Adults can not always be present at all times to manage young people’s social dynamics. Another approach may allow all the parties involved to change attitudes and gain skills to address this situation and make lasting changes.
This is a great opportunity to explore the importance of accepting differences and to promote inclusion with your children and their friends. This situation is a chance to teach prosocial skills that interrupt the cycle of bullying.
3You feel that it is a serious problem given the potential suffering of your child’s classmate. You decide to discuss the situation with your child and their friends in order to find strategies to put an end to the situation and communicate the message that bullying is not acceptable.
The young people involved realize that you take bullying seriously, regardless of its form.
You demonstrate to your child and their peers that you are an adult resource person who can help address situations affecting them.
Being honest about the possibility of including others in responding to the situation, while including young people in decision-making and taking their safety into consideration, builds their trust by creating transparency, promotes their rights and creates an opportunity for them to have a voice.
✓Explanation of the recommended response.
Key Concept: Bullying is serious, as it has harmful effects on all parties involved. It is important to intervene in all situations of bullying.
Recommended Response and Explanation: The third answer is recommended. In all three responses, there is concern about the excluded young person. However, it is only in the third answer that this concern is acted upon in a way that could change this specific situation. In the third response, young people are helped to understand that bullying is serious and unacceptable, and it will not be tolerated.