Dear Parents,

It is crucial to recognize that bullying is a deliberate and calculated act rather than a random occurrence. A bully does not simply wake up one morning and decide to harass a stranger without reason. Instead, they invest time in observing potential targets, specifically looking for individuals who appear unthreatening and offer the path of least resistance.

Understanding this mindset is the foundation for the strategies children must adopt to prevent or halt these behaviors. The most critical lesson is simply this: avoid isolation.

When a child walks or stands alone, they become significantly more vulnerable to harassment. Cultivating friendships is the best defense. A group of friends acts as a protective shield. Not only do they serve as witnesses to expose the actions of the bully, but their combined presence can also physically deter or overpower an aggressor. Bullies are acutely aware of the strength found in numbers.

I can attest to the effectiveness of this strategy from my own history. During my upbringing, I was quite the heckler and frequently made fun of my peers to get a laugh from the crowd. Naturally, those I teased would threaten to settle the score once the school day ended.

These individuals would lie in wait for me, but they never succeeded in catching me alone. I made it a point to conceal myself within a group of friends. Whenever my potential attackers saw me accompanied by others, they refrained from doing anything. The safety of the group neutralized the threat.

This principle remains true for bullying today. Please instruct your children to avoid walking or being alone whenever possible.

Do you have any personal experiences or thoughts to add to this discussion?