In our Native culture, we teach our children that diversity is to be honored and revered. Just as there are no two stars exactly alike in the universe, there are no two children exactly alike on Earth. It is so important to honor and respect each others’ differences.
We have found in our public and private elementary, middle, and high schools that diversity is something that is not typically honored by the school children. Any child who displays a perceived difference from the norm is a likely target of bullying. Parents and teachers, your child or student is especially vulnerable to bullying if they display any of the following characteristics:
- Obesity
- Speech impediments, or irregular speech patterns
- Racial difference from the norm at the school
- Developmental, emotional, or behavioral disability- please be aware that autistic children are especially vulnerable
- Physical disability – particularly when involving crutches, braces, or a wheelchair
- Low – or lower than the norm – socio-economic status
- Elementary school and middle school girls who physically mature earlier than most of their peers
- Elementary school and middle school boys who physically mature later than most of their peers
Parents and teachers, tell your children consistently that they are gifts to the world, Tell them they are bright and shining stars. If you have a child in your life with one or more of the characteristics above, please take special care in fostering the child’s self-esteem, and making sure that they are safe at school and at home.
