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[CCBC-Net] bullying realities
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From: TJ Ludwig <t.j.ludwig>
Date: Thu, 20 Mar 2008 10:53:52 -0700
I have been working with fellow members of the International Bullying Prevention Association to come up with some practical tips on what to look for in anti-bullying Literature. Below are my suggestions, their suggestions, in addition to those recommended by the Anti-Defamation League for the CCBC-Net folks' consideration and feedback:
Look for literature that...
-is well-written
-is developmentally age-appropriate, in terms of content and reading level
-honestly portrays the human condition--both in terms of language use that is familiar to children and having a storyline that is relevant to the reader
- offers multi-dimensional characters that "hook" the reader with relatable experiences and a realistic portrayal of emotions
- explores problem-solving techniques, offering non-violent strategies, realistic responses (when it comes to power abuse, just saying "sorry" or
"let's just be friends" isn't a solution); and safe interventions
- focuses on the need for adults and bystanders to take a primary role in stopping bullying
- encourages young people to report bullying to adults
-avoids perpetuating bullying myths/stereotypes (e.g., they're mostly boys, they have low-self esteem, they're unpopular, etc.)
Regarding your question, Tessa, as to whether those books which offer unrealistic conclusions are still valid, that's a tough one, in my opinion, to answer. There are many stories in which the targets of bullies retaliate, seeking revenge on their bullies, and, in turn, become bullies themselves. They, in essence, perpetuate the bully cycle.
But if the young readers are guided by an adult to help engage the children in thoughtful discussions on whether the solutions in the book are realistic, safe and/or practical, that would make a tremendous difference. These stories, again with the guidance of a teacher, for example, could provide amazing opportunities for generating conversations on the devastating repercussions of bullying--no one wins in a bully situation.
Just my opinion...
Trudy Ludwig Children's Advocate & Anti-Bullying Author
-----Original Message----- From: ccbc-net-bounces at ccbc.education.wisc.edu
[mailto:ccbc-net-bounces at ccbc.education.wisc.edu] On Behalf Of Tessa Michaelson Sent: Thursday, March 20, 2008 9:20 AM To: ccbc-net at ccbc.education.wisc.edu Subject: [CCBC-Net] bullying realities
Since this discussion launched, I have appreciated the conversation and connections on the topic. Many titles have been suggested as standouts and I hope to compile a list of books to share at the conclusion of our discussion,.
It is clear that the topic of bullying, teasing, and relational aggression has many dimensions for children, their classrooms, homes and communities. Indeed, the topic is relevant to the adult world in regard to relationships as well as issues of power in the larger society. It seems that for both children and adults, discussion of this topic taps into deep emotional roots and histories. For me, my interest in this topic stems directly from experiences as a teen and my desire to find both solace and solutions in books.
When selecting books on this topic for children, how should the quality be evaluated? If books offer somewhat unrealistic conclusions, are they still valid? If books address the issue with truthfulness, but are not examples of strong literature, are they recommendable? Returning to the origins of this thread, how do you respond to books that "range from purposeful and pointed to highly literary in style" and
"span the spectrum from lighthearted to grave"?
Date: Thu, 20 Mar 2008 10:53:52 -0700
I have been working with fellow members of the International Bullying Prevention Association to come up with some practical tips on what to look for in anti-bullying Literature. Below are my suggestions, their suggestions, in addition to those recommended by the Anti-Defamation League for the CCBC-Net folks' consideration and feedback:
Look for literature that...
-is well-written
-is developmentally age-appropriate, in terms of content and reading level
-honestly portrays the human condition--both in terms of language use that is familiar to children and having a storyline that is relevant to the reader
- offers multi-dimensional characters that "hook" the reader with relatable experiences and a realistic portrayal of emotions
- explores problem-solving techniques, offering non-violent strategies, realistic responses (when it comes to power abuse, just saying "sorry" or
"let's just be friends" isn't a solution); and safe interventions
- focuses on the need for adults and bystanders to take a primary role in stopping bullying
- encourages young people to report bullying to adults
-avoids perpetuating bullying myths/stereotypes (e.g., they're mostly boys, they have low-self esteem, they're unpopular, etc.)
Regarding your question, Tessa, as to whether those books which offer unrealistic conclusions are still valid, that's a tough one, in my opinion, to answer. There are many stories in which the targets of bullies retaliate, seeking revenge on their bullies, and, in turn, become bullies themselves. They, in essence, perpetuate the bully cycle.
But if the young readers are guided by an adult to help engage the children in thoughtful discussions on whether the solutions in the book are realistic, safe and/or practical, that would make a tremendous difference. These stories, again with the guidance of a teacher, for example, could provide amazing opportunities for generating conversations on the devastating repercussions of bullying--no one wins in a bully situation.
Just my opinion...
Trudy Ludwig Children's Advocate & Anti-Bullying Author
-----Original Message----- From: ccbc-net-bounces at ccbc.education.wisc.edu
[mailto:ccbc-net-bounces at ccbc.education.wisc.edu] On Behalf Of Tessa Michaelson Sent: Thursday, March 20, 2008 9:20 AM To: ccbc-net at ccbc.education.wisc.edu Subject: [CCBC-Net] bullying realities
Since this discussion launched, I have appreciated the conversation and connections on the topic. Many titles have been suggested as standouts and I hope to compile a list of books to share at the conclusion of our discussion,.
It is clear that the topic of bullying, teasing, and relational aggression has many dimensions for children, their classrooms, homes and communities. Indeed, the topic is relevant to the adult world in regard to relationships as well as issues of power in the larger society. It seems that for both children and adults, discussion of this topic taps into deep emotional roots and histories. For me, my interest in this topic stems directly from experiences as a teen and my desire to find both solace and solutions in books.
When selecting books on this topic for children, how should the quality be evaluated? If books offer somewhat unrealistic conclusions, are they still valid? If books address the issue with truthfulness, but are not examples of strong literature, are they recommendable? Returning to the origins of this thread, how do you respond to books that "range from purposeful and pointed to highly literary in style" and
"span the spectrum from lighthearted to grave"?
-- Tessa Michaelson, Librarian Cooperative Children's Book Center School of Education University of Wisconsin-Madison 4290 Helen C. White Hall 600 N. Park St Madison, WI 53706 Phone: 608-890-1332 FAX: 608-262-4933 tmichaelson at education.wisc.edu http://www.education.wisc.edu/ccbc/ _______________________________________________ CCBC-Net mailing list CCBC-Net at ccbc.education.wisc.edu Visit this link to read archives or to unsubscribe... http://ccbc.education.wisc.edu/mailman/listinfo/ccbc-netReceived on Thu 20 Mar 2008 12:53:52 PM CDT
