The NSPCC define bullying as follows:
“Bullying is intentional behaviour that hurts someone else. It includes name calling, hitting, pushing, spreading rumours, threatening or undermining someone.
It can happen anywhere – at school, at home or online. It’s usually repeated over a long period of time and can hurt a child both physically and emotionally.”
Bullying is as common as it is damaging. It can profoundly affect children’s self-esteem and behaviour. Children who are bullied:
- may develop mental health problems like depression and anxiety
- have fewer friendships
- aren’t accepted by their peers
- are wary and suspicious of others
- have problems adjusting to school, and don’t do as well.
How can books about bullying help?
Reading about bullying serves many purposes. Firstly, children can develop a better understanding of what bullying is and understand how it is different from teasing or being mean. This puts them in a better position to be able to recognise bullying, whether they are the victim, bully, or bystander. They can better understand how bullying makes children feel. This fosters empathy for others and encourages positive behaviour. They can also learn strategies to deal with bullying.
The benefits of reading books on bullying
Building empathy: Stories allow children to see the world through someone else’s eyes and foster empathy and understanding.
Problem solving skills: Anti-bullying books often include strategies for dealing with bullying, enabling children to deal with similar situations in real life.
Emotional support: Children’s books about bullying can reassure children that they are not alone and that others have faced and overcome similar challenges.
Conversation starters: These books can be great tools for parents and teachers to start conversations about bullying, its consequences, and prevention.
