A day for reflection and action is approaching. The first Thursday of November is International Day Against Violence and Bullying at School. November 7 will be the ideal time to discuss school bullying among minors in classrooms and at home. Being informed and aware can be the first step to detecting and combating bullying, which in recent years has increasingly affected younger children.
Violence, in any of its forms, not only affects the child who suffers it, but also those who witness it and those who participate in it. Therefore, as parents, we must be attentive and willing to recognize the signs, both at home and in communication with the school.
Children who are victims of bullying often show changes in their behavior and how they relate to others. It is common for these children to come home sad, irritable, or show little interest in their daily activities. We may notice that they suddenly no longer want to attend school or that their academic performance decreases for no apparent reason. These can be signs that something is not going well in their school environment, and although it may not always be bullying, it is important to maintain open and close communication with our children. Creating an environment of trust at home, where they feel safe to talk about their emotions and experiences, will allow us to stay aware of their daily lives and detect problems before they worsen.
It is important to consider that children who are perpetrating bullying and violence also need help, guidance, and treatment. Children can become bullies for various reasons: low self-esteem, lack of attention, family problems, or even the need to be accepted into a group. As parents, we must be alert to signs of aggressive behavior in our children, whether at home or in their social environment. If we notice that they act with little empathy, that they try to impose their will on others, or that they enjoy seeing others suffer, it is essential to intervene and explain the importance of empathy, respect, and solidarity. This can help them understand the impact of their actions and reflect on how they treat others.
Schools also play a key role, and collaboration between parents and teachers is essential to prevent and detect bullying situations. Regularly talking with teachers to find out how our children behave in class, on the playground, or how they interact with their peers, can give us valuable information. A healthy and safe school environment is everyone's responsibility, and it is essential that, as parents, we get involved in school activities and meetings, as well as in monitoring coexistence among students.
This November 7, International Day Against Violence and Bullying at School, is an opportunity to remember that we can all do something from our place. For victims, the support and protection of their parents can be a solid foundation in difficult times. For those who, in their developmental path, have adopted bullying behaviors, companionship and guidance are essential to help them find positive ways to relate. Being attentive and educating our children about respect and empathy towards others are steps we can take every day. It is everyone's responsibility to work so that our children grow up in a safe, healthy, and respectful environment towards others.
Together, we make a better world
