Teachers’ Toolkit for Handling Sibling Bullying
When I saw that agreeable, friendly child helping his younger brother to pack his backpack, I couldn’t believe that he was a bully to the same brother. But that was what his teacher has told me earlier that morning.
She reported an incident of abuse in which elder child pushed his brother from a swing causing him to break his nose and that that incident was not a standalone event in the history of these boys.
How a young child of kindergarten could purposefully harm his brother and that so repeatedly? That question kept the staff bewildered.
Interestingly, dealing with such children and families starts with answering this same question. Teachers and onlookers need to understand that judging these family dynamics is not going to help these families in any way. In contrast, we need to understand that these events and behaviors are more impulsive than planned.
Step 1: Feel Empathy
And, no, here I am not talking about feeling empathy with the victim only. Bully also need as much empathy and acceptance from teachers as victims do.
The process of intervention in any kind of bullying can only start with acceptance. You have to accept the bully as a child. (There is a difference between accepting the behavior and accepting the person showing the behavior. And this difference is the start of empathy.)
This acceptance, which in turn is pre-requisite for empathy towards a bullying child, comes from understanding the pressure that child was going through. Teachers need to acknowledge that every child has an inert understanding about which behaviors hurt or which ones help. On top of this understanding, children are hardwired to choose good behaviors unless they feel internal or external pressures to choose otherwise.
In most cases of sibling bullying, child feel this pressure because their parents haven’t taught them to navigate through the feelings of jealousy that arise when their siblings join the family. Labeling them as bullies or aggressors only adds to this burden.
When a teacher understands this pressure, they have reason to help the bully not just the victim of bullying.
Step 2: Communicate
Most cases of sibling bullying co-exist with complex family dynamics. In such cases, the teacher should communicate the matter with the school psychologist.
In milder cases, they should communicate with the family, and other teachers of bullies and victims, about this matter to create awareness, clear misunderstandings, and create a common gam plan.
Appreciate the human they, victims and bullies alike, are. Be a little more positive towards the duo. If they want to talk about their emotions, lend a listening ear. Create class activities which talk about family dynamics and bonding with family members.
Educate the whole class about bullying and what they can do to stop sibling bullying.
Step 3: Develop Social Skills
Inclusion and tolerance are a few mindsets that help in eradicating any type of bullying. But if a child has to fight with himself (as is the case with a bully), the emotional intelligence is more crucial than these social mindsets.
Include class activities which focus on building socio-emotional intelligence among students. A few common examples include naming emotions of others and themselves, journaling, and building emotions using positive words or actions.
Wrap Up
Sibling bullying starts at home and its elimination can only happen at hope. That said, teachers and school environment plays an vital role in mitigating the losses and creating awareness around this topic.
If you are witnessing such bullying among your students, step up to bring normalcy within the lives of those affected.
Author Bio:
Syeda Aruba lives in a world that is not away from yours yet full of contentment and self-satisfaction. She believes that she can, and everyone in retrospect, can produce happiness within themselves by knowing the right tools and making a commitment. She is committed to making the world a better place for all to live in. You can read her stories at her blog.
10 Digital Tools To Enhance Creative Learning in Schools
Key Takeaways ThemeDescription1. Project-Based LearningEngaging students in project-based learning fosters creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.2. Student-Centric LearningTailoring teaching methods to individual student needs fosters a more engaging...
20 Private School KPIs to Measure Overall Quality
Measuring the enhancement of a school's overall quality of education, sports, facilities, extracurricular activities, and the promotion of students' careers can involve a wide range of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Here are possible 20 Private school KPIs for...
Unlock Your Purpose – 11 Practical Steps for Living a Meaningful Life
Discovering Your True Purpose11 Practical Steps of Living a Purpose Life and Acheving Your Life PurposeUnlock Your Purpose - 11 Practical Steps for Living a Meaningful Life Discovering Your True Purpose Discovering your true purpose in life is a deeply personal and...
101 Signs of a Great School
In a nutshell, a great school is one that provides an inclusive, safe, and nurturing environment where students can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. It is characterized by engaged and passionate educators, high academic standards, a diverse and...
15 Individual Actions to Enhance Education in Poor Nations
Why is education in poor countries important? What are the barriers to education in poor countries? 15 Individual Actions to Enhance Education in Poor Nations1. Support Local Schools2. Donate Books and Supplies3. Advocate for Education4. Mentorship5. Educate...
Leaving No Child Behind – Extending Quality Education to Orphans
Leaving No Child Behind - Extending Quality Education to Orphans Introduction The Impact of Orphanhood on Education Emotional and psychological obstacles faced by orphans Disruptions in educational continuity Lack of financial resources and support...
Ultimate Self-Assessment Guide for Teachers and 20 Teaching Mistakes
Elevating Teaching Skills: The Ultimate Self-Assessment Guide for Teachers Introduction Teaching is a noble profession that demands continuous growth and improvement. As educators, it is crucial for us to engage in self-assessment to enhance our teaching skills and...
7 Cost-Efficient Organization Tips for Busy Parents
As busy parents, it can be difficult to find time to stay organized, but it is possible. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can get your family back on track and save money while doing so. All Good Schools has compiled these 7 Cost-Efficient Organization Tips for...
10 Must Have AI Tools For Teachers to Revolutionize Education
10 Must Have AI Tools For Teachers to Revolutionize Education 10 Must Have AI Tools For Teachers to Revolutionize Education10 Must Have AI Tools For Teachers to Revolutionize Education1- Virtual Assistants for Personalized Learning2- AI-Powered Tutoring Systems3-...
17 Points Comprehensive Guide for Empowering Orphans for a Bright Future
Table of Contents Introduction 17 Points Comprehensive Guide for Empowering Orphans for a Bright Future 1- Understanding the Orphan Crisis 2- Impacts of Orphanhood on Children 3- Adoption and Foster Care Options 4- Building Support Systems for Orphans 5- Providing...
15 Great Benefits and Risks of Using AI Parenting Apps
Benefits and Risks of Using AI Parenting Apps. Discover the pros and cons of AI parenting apps in our comprehensive guide. Learn about the benefits of personalized recommendations, time-saving features, and educational support, as well as the potential risks of data privacy and over-reliance on technology.
How Remote Job Seekers Benefit From Agencies
How Remote Job Seekers Benefit from Agencies to their advantage, ensuring a successful and fulfilling career path in the digital age
60+ Creative Hacks to Save Money as a College Student
Master your finances with 100+ money-saving hacks for textbooks, food, housing, & more! Save Money as a College Student
70 Plus Vital Actions for Teacher Regulatory Body
A teacher regulatory body, often known as a teacher regulatory authority or teacher licensing board, plays a crucial role in the education system by ensuring the quality, professionalism, and ethical standards of educators
25 Core Elements of a Robust Education Policy
An education policy plays a vital role in the success of a country. This article will cover 25 Core Elements of a Robust Education Policy
Read Foundation Pakistan – Transforming Lives Through Education
Join us in our mission of transforming lives through education. Your support can brighten the future of orphaned children, providing them with the gift of knowledge and opportunities for a better tomorrow.
0 Comments