Bullying

"Did you experience bullying as a child either as a victim, witness or as a bully? How did you survive that experience and what did you learn from it that is helping you now as a Teacher?"

I was fortunate as a child and was not bullied.  However, I did see other students who were bullied, especially in middle school.  The form of bullying I saw the most was name-calling.  I also see this form of bullying in my classroom from time to time.  This has prompted me to have a discussion with my classes on the different forms of bullying.  I think many students do not realize the effect their words may have on another.  I have discussed with my students how they may think what they are saying is just a joke, but they never know how the other person will interpret it.  I do not tolerate bullying in my classroom, and make sure to address it whenever I hear it.  Many students will respond with "well they know I'm just joking!"  I emphasize to them that they cannot know that, and even if they are joking it is not appropriate to tease others.  What they might think is a joke may be very hurtful to others, even if they do not say anything or show on the outside that they are offended.