As October 20 is a Spirit Day to help support young people dealing with bullying because of their difference or sexual identity, I thought people might be interested in knowing about this project. Likewise, the TCSA Queer Issues Commissioner has a toolkit with other advice and activities that can help to ensure well-being. At left is a photo of Dan Savage, the writer who started the "It gets better" YouTube channel, reaching out to kids in junior high or high school who may be feeling alone and isolated because of bullying.
Hi (Dr.) Mike,
ReplyDeleteThis is an interesting initiative, so thanks for posting. I know this is a late comment, but...=)
I volunteer with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Kids on the Block (KOB) puppet troupe program. CMHA-KOB performs in five counties--Peterborough, Kawartha-Lakes, Northumberland, Clarington and parts of Haliburton. Our aim is to deliver messages/strategies/skills about mental health to children from junior kindergarten till Grade 6.
One of our themes is bullying (other themes include disability/medical/psychological 'disabilities', social issues etc). And we are especially busy during 'Anti-Bullying Week'. Our puppet shows are targeted at encouraging children to discuss bullying in a non-confrontational, informal way, and offer them skills which they can use when faced with a bully.
We believe that when children learn coping skills early on, regardless of the problem, they will be better equipped to face life in the future. And hopefully, in the process, become productive members of society.
Cheers!
Daphne