Bullies

One of the toughest problems for young children is bullying - especially on the elementary school age level.

Now there's hope. The American Doll Corporation has decided to help young girls with courage. Their new 2009 Doll of the year - Chrissa - will help young girls find the courage to stand up for herself and others.

You can check out this courageous new doll and her friends at http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/static/home.jsf or you can order it through my Amazon.com website link in the sidebar.

It seems like it would be a wonderful tool to open the lines of communication so you can talk to your daughter about courage and bullies. Let me know what you think!

As far as dealing with bullies, one of your most important tools is "communication". Bullies use scare tactics to keep your child from talking with you. That's the only way they can remain in control. They may even go so far as to convince your child that if he/she talks to you about the bully - that they have a way to hurt the family. Most of the time there's no way a bully can hurt the family - but the innocence of your child may make him feel like the bully is telling the truth.

Only when your child knows that "you" will protect them, that bullies can't hurt you or your child and that "you" will be on their side - only then will a child have the courage to tell you what's going on.

Remember: You can't diffuse a bully unless you know what he's doing to your child. Get the facts in a loving and safe environment.

Seeking His Wisdom

Debbie