Tissues ready!
Ky Baldwin, an Australian singer, songwriter, dancer and actor has released a haunting and heartbreaking music video that details the effects of bullying, and why no one should ever keep quiet in such situations.
The video tells the tale of a boy who is being bullied at school, and explores two timelines: one with a happy ending, and one that ends in tragedy.
(Trigger warning: Suicide)
Watch the video below, or on YouTube:
Childline South Africa says that if bullies are not dealt with in the beginning stages it can also lead to kids joining violent gangs and becoming involved in crime, so schools and families need to respond pro-actively to bullying to prevent this.
Their website also lists a few guidelines educators, and parents, can practice when bullying occurs, as well as some preventative measures.
- Set an example by treating all children with respect.
- Never pick on a physical characteristic or a difference when disciplining a child.
- Teaching children to be assertive and boosting every child?s self-confidence will help them deal with bullies.
- All schools should have an anti-bullying policy that seeks to protect all children.
- It is important that children know that all forms of bullying are totally unacceptable within the school.
- It is also important to be aware of the needs of a child who is a bully.
- Bullying behavior is sometimes a sign that the bully is experiencing problems at home.
- Indicate to a bully, that their behaviour is unacceptable.
- In addition, be prepared to work with the bully to help them find alternative ways of behaving.
We all have a responsibility in ensuring that children feel safe wherever they find themselves, especially in schools where they spent most of their days.
If you are not sure who to turn to, or feel your child won't confide in anyone they know, or someone else you know is at risk, you can get in touch with the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) by calling 0800 567 567 or 0800 456 789 any day of the week to speak to a counsellor, or Childline SA at 0800 55 555.
Chat back:
Share your story with us, and we could publish your mail. Anonymous contributions are welcome.
Read more:
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Millie Bobby Brown talks bullying, having to switch schools and how she’s making social media a “happy place” because of it
‘Hey, you can’t talk to girls like that’: Which gender-based violence interventions actually work?