Jenna Rivers recently appeared on a popular talk show where she candidly discussed her approach to handling bullying with her son. While her perspective may not align with the traditional advice given to parents, many can relate to her feelings if their child faces bullying.
The Reality of Bullying in Schools
Bullying has become a pressing issue in schools today. The typical recommendation is to encourage children to communicate their feelings and seek adult intervention when necessary. However, Jenna suggests that there may be times when her son needs to stand up for himself. She expressed her thoughts during her segment: “When my son was being bullied at school, I told him, you need to take a stand! Don’t let anyone push you around!” It’s unlikely she used those exact words with her young child, but the sentiment is clear.
Her partner, of course, advocates for conflict resolution through dialogue, suggesting that children should use words to address their issues. Yet, not every situation can be smoothed over with conversation, and sometimes adults aren’t present to help. Teaching kids that it’s permissible to assert themselves is not inherently wrong.
A Personal Experience
My own child faced bullying on the school bus last year. Being in kindergarten, I never encouraged him to retaliate aggressively, but I did tell him it was acceptable to push back and call for help. On a bus, where the driver is focused on the road, immediate adult intervention is often lacking. I want my child to feel empowered, not like a target, and I don’t regret advising him to defend himself when necessary. While I wouldn’t endorse full-on fighting, I think it’s reasonable for kids to assert themselves to escape uncomfortable situations until they can get help.
The Ongoing Issue of Bullying
The issue of bullying isn’t likely to disappear anytime soon. As long as children grow up in environments where aggression is accepted, bullying will persist. Fortunately, there is now more awareness and dialogue about bullying than in past generations, when it was often dismissed as a normal part of growing up. I appreciate being a parent during a time when schools take bullying seriously, allowing for proactive measures rather than reactive ones. However, I’ll never shy away from encouraging my children to stand up for themselves when it’s necessary.
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Conclusion
In summary, while traditional advice often emphasizes talking things out in the face of bullying, parents like Jenna Rivers recognize that sometimes children need to assert themselves to protect their well-being. The conversation around bullying is more relevant now than ever, and it’s vital for parents to navigate these dynamics thoughtfully.