How to Prevent Bullying - Lessons on Tolerance and Inclusion

After observing activity on the lessons4life forum and how much interest there is in finding new and exciting ways of teaching children about the harmful effects of bullying in schools, I have decided to spend some time doing the research for you.

Over the coming weeks I will provide you with tried and tested lessons from teachers and parents around the world.

One of the important things to remember when educating young children on the effects of bullying, is not to focus on bullying behaviour alone, but rather concentrate on creating an inclusive culture in the classroom. By teaching about tolerance and inclusion you will reduce the number of bullying incidents and teasing that occurs in schools in a positive way.

Here is a great lesson adapted from Gary Hopkins lessons posted on educationworld.com

1. Draw and cut out the silhoutte of a child. Introduce the child as a new student to the classroom and give them a name.
   


2. Explain how difficult it can be to be the new person in a classroom - especially if other children in the classroom are mean.
   


3. Have each child say something mean to the 'new student' such as 'We dont like you', 'Your hair is ugly' or 'You cant play with us!'
   


4. As each comment is made, rip off a large piece of the cut out and hand it to the child.
   


5. Once everyone has had a chance to say something, it is time to repair the damage. Get each child to apologise to the 'new student' for what they have said and slowly tape the 'new student' back together.
   


6. When the cut out is taped back together, discuss how they don't look the same. What was said has scarred the new student and they will never be the same.
   


7. Remind the children of the long-term effects of what they say.
   


8. Consider posting the cut out on the wall as a reminder to children of what they have learned.
   
   I'd love your feedback on this school bullying lesson. I think it sounds like a great activity for kids.
   
   Remember to check out www.kidslessons4life.com forum for other great bullying lessons and activities.