How To Defeat A Bully
How To Defeat A Bully
Information compiled by Mike D.
Children face attacks on their self-esteem from a variety of sources. One type of attack I’d like to address is the common “Bully.” Bullies have been considered a part of growing up, but how a child deals with, and the repercussions of dealing with bullies, have changed over time. Some schools now have “Zero Tolerance” rules that punish both children if there is an altercation, so the old adage of “If they hit you, hit ‘em back!” doesn’t always work today.
Even though incidences of bullying vary in severity, one thing for certain is that repeated attacks whether verbal, physical, or written (yes written, since there have been reports of children being bullied through e-mail and by content placed on websites) erode your child’s self-esteem.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has linked bullying to coping behaviors that include isolation, drug use, violence and suicide. But your child does not have to be a victim!
Whether the assault is verbal or physical the first line of defense remains the same — Self-confidence — and here’s why: Bullies choose their victims much like criminals choose victims; they go for the easy and obvious target. If your child looks like a kid who can get bullied, he most likely will be. On the other hand, if your child radiates self-confidence he is less likely to be a victim. Your child needs to walk with his or her head up; shoulders square, and make eye contact with people. Just doing so may be enough to keep bullies at bay. Although this is easier said than done, it can be learned and kids learn by doing. So a change in body language may have huge impact. Teach your kids how to speak up and to speak clearly when they first meet someone. Teach them the importance of making eye-contact when they talk to you and others.
Another layer of defense we teach our students is to create a boundary. We teach students how to protect their space with an assertive body posture — feet slightly apart, one foot in front, shoulders square, chin up, eye contact, and most importantly, hands up as if making a “Stop” gesture. We call this our self-defense stance, and it is designed to get them out of trouble by communicating neutrality, awareness, and assertiveness.
Your child may also have to use words as a form of protection. Simple phrases and commands said in a confident voice will tell the bully that he is not dealing with a victim. Simple commands like: “Stop,” “Back Off,” said in the right tone of voice may stop a bully in his tracks!
As you can see, dealing with a bully has its challenges and there is no one way that works every time. However, when your child develops high levels of self-esteem and self-confidence, a bully’s words or actions have less of an impact.
Please contact us with any questions or for a FREE Introductory Program contact us 908.464.2836. You may also visit our website at http://www.BeginKarate.com
Karate World – Martial Arts for Life
The Village Shopping Center, 1260 Springfield Ave., New Providence, NJ 07974
Proud to offer Martial Arts, Life Skills, & Anti-bullying strategies to children and families in New Providence NJ, Berkeley Heights NJ, Chatham NJ, Stirling NJ, Gillette NJ, Summit NJ, Union County NJ, Morris County NJ and all surrounding areas.
P.S. Visit our website at http://www.BeginKarate.com to learn about our 21-Day Confidence Course for children!
Posted by karateworld 
Posted by karateworld 