How to say 'no'

[DrCoral]

I'm fed up with the 'stand up to bullies' narrative, which for years has advocated 'telling someone' or 'standing together' against bullies. How does wearing purple stop bullying? How does wearing a wristband stop bullying? These 'initiatives' clearly haven't worked, since bullying is getting worse and worse.

My blog is all about practical ways to actually protect our children from bullies. This article is all about how to say 'no'.

All comments welcome!

bit.ly/2zr70wb

Thanks for this. I need this advice at 43.

I think most people's image of a bully is someone giving verbal or physical abuse. Your examples are of people being more subtle. I don't tend to think of a domineering friend being a bully but they are and this is probably where most children will encounter bullying.

My DD suffered with a controlling friend and it was frustrating to see her 'go back for more'. More so as it mirrored my childhood 'friendships'. We did try role play and that really helped. She is out of that situation now and is much more confident. I think your suggestions to practise responses are spot on.

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Thanks for that. Its encouraging to think that some may find it useful.