Bullying can affect kids from kindergarten through high school and beyond. Because of the amount of supervision, bullying in kindergarten to the end of elementary school is usually nipped in the bud. However middle school (or junior high) is usually a breeding ground for those who really like to pick on others. High school can be really bad for some students as bullies are bigger or stronger and may have picked up some bad habits on the street or from their parents.

We know that bullying is not tolerated at school, but that does not stop bullying at all. It just means that bullies pick their time more thoughtfully. Make it look like an accident. Whisper instead of shout. Evil look or gestures. Swarm. Most bullies are cowards and if picking on a same size person or a person who shows no fear, they usually do it in a pack. Gives them courage. But one on one, no - that's when fear makes its appearance. However, some bullies think they can take on anyone. It's just that they haven't learned that there is always someone who is quieter, smarter, faster, stronger, or more competent.

There are a lot of resources available for parents and teens about bullying and three are referenced below.

How to not be a bullying victim? Learn how not to be a victim, which will be covered in another blog soon.

From KidsHealth, we have this article called, Dealing with Bullies. This is a great website with lots of info for kids, teens and parents.
Also from KidsHealth there is this article called, What Kids say about Bullying.

From the US government Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), we have this article called, Bullying Affects All Middle School Kids, A Family Guide

From the US Dept of Education there is this good article called,
Friendships -- Helping Your Child Through Early Adolescence, which would help parents and teens avoid situations where parents are not aware of bullying with their children.

There is no place for bullies. Some respond to guidance and some don't. The ones who don't usually end up in walkaway homes because they are unmanageable. They are most vulnerable to a life behind bars as well. So, if you can, try to talk with those who are on the bullying path. It may not be too late to help them.

Some website resources advise that fighting back is not the answer as it is violence. Well, I think people should learn to defend themselves.

Cheers - Mike