Bully Prevention Month Part 1: What is Bullying and the Negative Impact on Children
October is Bully Prevention Month, and at our karate school, we believe every child deserves to feel safe, respected, and confident. The first step in preventing bullying is understanding what it really is and why it can be so harmful.
What Is Bullying?
Bullying is not just a disagreement or a one-time conflict. Bullying happens when someone repeatedly hurts, teases, or excludes another person on purpose, and there’s usually an imbalance of power. That power could be physical strength, popularity, or even using technology to embarrass someone.
Some common types of bullying include:
Physical bullying – hitting, pushing, tripping, or taking/damaging someone’s belongings
Verbal bullying – teasing, name-calling, or making threats
Social bullying – leaving someone out on purpose, spreading rumors, or embarrassing them
Cyberbullying – using phones, social media, or gaming platforms to post hurtful messages or images
Why Bullying Is Harmful
Bullying hurts more than just feelings – it can have lasting effects on a child’s body, mind, and future.
Confidence and self-worth: Children who are bullied often begin to doubt themselves, believing they aren’t “good enough” or don’t belong. This can affect how they see themselves for years to come.
Emotional health: Kids who experience bullying may feel sad, anxious, or scared. In some cases, it can lead to depression and social withdrawal.
Physical health: Stress from bullying can cause real physical problems, like headaches, stomachaches, or trouble sleeping.
School performance: A bullied child may not want to go to school or may have a hard time focusing in class, which can impact learning.
Long-term effects: Many adults who were bullied as kids say it still affects their confidence, trust in others, and ability to form healthy relationships.
That’s why learning about bullying isn’t just important – it’s life-changing.
A Message for Parents: How to Talk to Your Kids
Bullying prevention is most effective when families and schools work together. Parents play a key role in helping children feel safe and supported. Here are a few ways to start the conversation at home:
Create open communication: Ask your child daily about school, friends, and activities. Encourage them to share both the good and the bad.
Listen without judgment: If your child says they’re being bullied, listen calmly and avoid reacting with immediate anger. Show them you believe them and that you’re there to help.
Teach empathy and kindness: Help your child understand how their actions and words affect others. Encourage them to stand up for classmates who may be treated unfairly.
Role-play situations: Practice responses they can use if they encounter bullying, whether it’s speaking up, seeking help, or walking away confidently.
Know the signs: Watch for changes in mood, sleep, appetite, or school performance that might signal your child is struggling.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
At our karate school, we don’t just teach kicks and punches – we teach respect, confidence, and leadership. These qualities help kids stand strong against bullying and support their peers in doing the same.
This October, let’s commit to raising awareness, having conversations, and building a culture of kindness. When children know what bullying is, why it’s harmful, and how to seek help, we take the first step in creating a safer future for everyone.
Is your child experiencing bullying? Give us a call at 260-408-4571 and claim two free classes.
Legacy Martial Arts
260-408-4571