Thursday, March 31, 2011

Mean Girls Strike Again - 2011 Version

I spoke too soon.

I recently commented that my daughter’s 6th grade year was better in regards to bullying. The moment the words came out of my mouth I wondered why I dared say it out loud.

The voice on the other end of the receiver asked if I could pick her up “right now” at school. My daughter was scheduled to attend Girl Scouts and softball practice. A group of girls deliberately excluded her from the group, called her names and hid her books and pencil case. The assistant softball coach saw the group hiding the items in the locker room. The girl’s said it was just a game.

It is not a game…it is bullying.

The assistant softball coach, who witnessed the behavior of the group, informed the other assistant coach who happens to be the father of the lead “mean girl”.

So what happened?

I received a phone call from the girl’s parents. I appreciate the call because I am sure it was not an easy one to make. We had a long discussion and I informed them of the duration and extent of the bullying. They had a talk with their daughter and want me to tell them if the bullying continues.

Hopefully things will get better but I am concerned it could get worse.


For excellent articles on bullying prevention check out John Zimmer's My Self-Defense Blog and Sensei Matt Klein's article Bullying: A Parents Guide to Prevention.

7 comments:

Noah said...

I'm impressed that the parents were actually willing to hear your daughter's side of things. Hopefully that helps!

murakami said...

Nice to meet you
I am Murakami of the instructor of the Dojo of NIPPON KEMPO in Japan.
The bullying does not exist in my Dojo.
I pray to become the world without the bullying.
I pray to go to the good direction.

Felicia said...

I'm glad the parents seem willing to right the wrong, too. Sucks that your daughter (and you) has to go through this, though...

Michele said...

I appreciate your comments.

Noah: I agree...I was glad her parents called me.

Murakami: Welcome and thanks for visiting!

Felicia: Yesterday, I found out two older girls, who witnessed the situation, also reported it to the school. I was impressed by their actions.

JOHN W ZIMMER said...

Hi Michele.

It is encouraging you are able to talk already to the other parents. The proactive approach is good.

You seem to have good communication with your daughter that will make the difference.

SenseiMattKlein said...

Thanks for the link luv Michele. I doubt if you will continue to have problems. It is a great sign that the parents called you and expressed concern. In most cases they can't be bothered--they don't care, or won't accept any blame. They seem willing to do something about it. I hope this works out well. Most of these issues pass before you know it.

Bob M said...

Belatedly, I can only echo the other posters' comment that parental involvement will make a difference. How disappointing after things seemed to start off well. I know I feel angry, I'm sure you do also.