October is Bully Awareness Month. My school days are long over, but that doesn't mean that I don't have memories of bullies. Luckily, I never really had to deal with being bullied. I do recall former classmates being taunted, tormented, and harassed. At that young age, there's not much you can do to stop it from happening. Honestly, you're just happy that it's not you the bully is targeting. Many people have different ideas of what the definition of a bully is. Some might think it's a person who corners you after school and throws you against a wall and demands your money. On the other hand, others might think it's someone who teases you in class and makes fun of you. No matter what you picture a bully as, the true definition is anyone who uses strength or power to harm or intimidate those who are weaker. There are many more resources against bullying nowadays then there were when I was in school. If you are being bullied, it's time to put a stop to it now.
Netflix has put together tools to help parents open a dialogue with their children about this issue. If you currently have Netflix, please find the below list of eleven television shows and movies that encourage a conversation with kids of all ages. Parents of teens and tweens can leverage Netflix titles that address bullying head-on, while those with younger children can demonstrate the importance of standing up for others while using superheroes to show that there is a hero in all of us.
For big kids:
Bully
The War
Billy Elliott
Cyber Bully
Fat Boy Chronicles
For younger children:
Hercules
The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes
Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius
Spy Kids: All the Time in The World
Justice League Unlimited
Ben 10: Alien Force
As you can see, there are a wide range of titles available that showcase the topic of bullying. A great way to have a conversation with your child about bullying would be to initially prep them about it. Afterwards, allow them to select the movie or television show of their choosing that discusses the topic. It's essential to encourage them to speak their mind after their selection is over by writing down thoughts about bullying. Talk to them about what a bully is, if they've seen bullying in their school/been bullied, and ways that they can help. It's vital to reiterate to them that bullying is not acceptable, nor ever will be. Sharing thoughts and feelings is detrimental in everyday life, but essential for this topic. Your child will appreciate knowing that you care to educate them and stand for something so important.
*DISCLOSURE* I am being compensated as a member of Netflix's Stream Team. This is my first post and all thoughts are my own.
Post a Comment