Rooting out playground bullies

Bullying does not have to be tolerated, accepted or, worse, ignored. While it's true that bullying has been in existence since the beginning of time and it will never banish entirely from our children's lives forever, the fact is there is much we can do about it.

If you think bullying only affects kids, you'd be greatly mistaken. Bullying and the scars left from it are often carried into adulthood and right into our offices and workplaces as well.

A child should be taught that once a bully is exposed, they lose their secretive, covert "power" to hurt others, rendering the bully less effective. Parents must encourage their kids to talk to them opening and honestly about what is going on at school. Go to school, work in the classrooms and when you see a problem, document it in writing to your school and to our district. Make the matter known so we, as parents and administrators, can solve these heartbreaking problems together.

Once a bully is exposed through one or several complaints, the bully has fewer options and is far less inclined to inflict pain, knowing there will be consequences. Ironically, children that are bullied protect the bully, though they don't realize it, by not telling on him or her. This behavior alone encourages a bully to simply continue looking for more victims. Instead, hold that bully accountable for his/her actions.

Parents, please don't ask how your kid's day went at school while you are on the phone, drinking a mocha latte and trying to make a left turn all at the same time. Stop what you are doing during each day and really look into your child's eyes and ask, "What went on at school today?" Give them a chance to break down their fears and disappointment to confide in you that they were or have been picked on if they have been.

Then, get going. Call the school and write a letter to document what happened. This sends the bully and his family a message that we don't need bullies in our schools and we're not going to pretend they're not there any longer.

Motivate your kids to thrive, learn and grow in our schools. Build their self-respect to have the courage to speak up. Please don't be indifferent by teaching them to tolerate humiliation, loss of selfrespect and embarrassment, because a bully does not have to be a part of growing up for your child. They deserve so much better, don't they? Noel Gyro Oak Park