Guest blogger, author, and teen philanthropist, Alyssa Antoci is the fifteen-year-old author of an anti-bullying children’s book called The Purple Marble. She speaks regularly in schools as an anti-bullying advocate.
After countless speaking engagements promoting kindness, Alyssa has summarized the key information she shares with her peers, as well as elementary-aged students. These tips come straight out of her picture book, which many classrooms use as a resource.
Seven points Alyssa shares with school kids:
1.) You are NOT ALONE. Chances are most kids are or will be bullied at some point in their lives.
2.) If you are being bullied, it is so important to talk to a trusted adult like a teacher or parent who can help with the situation.
3.) If you are being bullied, you need to understand that it is not about you. People bully because they’ve been bullied, they’re going through something that makes them feel less-than and they need to make others feel the same, or they’re simply jealous. Don’t make bullying about you…I know…easier said than done.
4.) There will always be bullies in this world. Seek help from an adult to stick up for yourself. Don’t bully back, but stand your ground.
5.) If you see someone getting bullied, you must not stand by and just watch. Also, do not participate in this cruel behavior. If you are in a safe position to take action, stick up for the person being bullied, especially if it’s a friend of yours who’s doing the bullying. If it is not safe, tell a trusted adult about the situation.
6.) Treat others the way you want to be treated.
7.) You may be going through a tough time right now, but there is always light at the end of the tunnel. You will get past this time, and there will be a future where these cruel people will be forgotten and gone from your life. So don’t let them win, ever!
If you’d like to connect with Alyssa, follow her on Instagram @alyssabantoci.