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BULLYING: IN OUR SCHOOLS Bullying: A Serious Problem in our Schools 10520 Hwy 10 East Dickinson, ND 701-483-4677 Kids, don’t get lost. Stay on the RIGHT ROAD towards a DRUG FREE future! 1674 15th Street West - Ste. #1 Dickinson, ND 195 28 Avenue E • Dickinson, ND Bullying is a serious problem in our schools. Children, as young as 5 years of age, get bullied. Bullying can be a traumatic experience especially for children who are bullied for years. Their suffering from being bullied may have gone unnoticed by their parents, so they don’t get the help they need. School bullying can damage children’s self-esteem. These children become victims and they suffer emotionally, socially and academically. There are different types of bullying. Verbal bullying: involves name-calling and/or teasing. Social bullying: involves spreading rumors, intentionally leaving others out of activities and breaking up friendships. Physical bullying: includes hitting, pushing, punching and other intentional physical harm. Parents need to be aware of the early signs of being a victim of bullying which include: • Becoming withdrawn and isolated 701-227-4947 “We are proudly supporting our future leaders in their efforts to remain ABUSE FREE!” • Feeling sad which can lead to serious depression and suicide attempts • Loss of interest in daily activities • Sleep and appetite disturbances • Constant worries and fear • Low self-esteem and self-image • Feeling helpless and/or acting helpless • Decline in school performance Some children don’t share with their parents about what goes on at school. It is important for parents to connect and spend consistent quality time with their children. Tips for dealing with bullying: • Persistent somatic complaints such as headaches and stomachaches • Gently ask your child about school and friends. • Making excuses not to go to school in the morning • Be sensitive when your child shares with you that she/he gets bullied. Listen attentively and let your child know that being bullied is not her/his fault. INDUSTRIAL MeasureMent & Control 701.483.1691 Kids, Strive for a BRIGHTER future! Stay Drug Free! 11113 31P Street SW • Dickinson, ND 14 Source: www.inspirulina.com KIDS, don’t throw your future in the TRASH! Stay Drug Free! Source: www.crimesensemag.com 866-644-7168 | North Dakota Spring/Summer 2014 | abusemagazine.org • Find out from your child how long the bullying has been going on, what has been tried to stop the bullying and what has worked or what has not worked so far. • Teach your child to be assertive. It is important that your child not react aggressively when she/he gets bullied Source: By Dr. Mark Bell, FACN, Board Certified Psychiatrist