Bullying comes in many forms, Lynda Freeman reminds us in this guest post. Learn how to make children aware of the impact of their actions, words, and attitudes.
Children typically recognize physical harm and unkind words as acts of bullying. But they may not consider unkind attitudes as equally unacceptable. We need to help kids understand that it’s never okay to be unkind to others.
Consider Ephesians 4:1-2, where Paul says, “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love.”
God wants us to treat others with humility and gentleness, with patience and love. So we need to help kids learn to use this standard to choose the words they use and the attitudes they show.
A Lesson in Bullying
For a few weeks, jot down some things you hear children say about others and attitudes you notice, both positive and negative. Then, without naming names, read what you heard and observed.
Ask children if these things show humility, gentleness, patience, and love. Also ask how they would feel if others used these words or attitudes with them. Spend time in prayer asking God to help us all be people who choose to say “NO!” to bullying and “YES!” to treating others with kindness.
