Talking about cyberbullying with kids is something parents and teachers will all do at some point. It's a sad fact of digital life. This is true if your own kids or students are experiencing it or not. The fact is it's happening, and something must be done.
It's easy to say when the terror and degradation isn't real for us personally. Just know it's a hard thing for anyone to talk about. If you're a kid, you run the risk of being ignored. If you're an adult, people might think you're either weak or overreacting.
All these assumptions ignore a fundamental truth about cyberbullying. Someone is needlessly hurting or threatening someone else. That's the truth that matters more than anything.
Breaching the subject of cyberbullying doesn't have to be hard. It can be engaging, eye-opening, and inspiring for students. These 5 videos provide solid discussion material for kids of all ages.
No matter what, it's important that students learn they have a choice. Technology is powerful and can be harmful if misused. It's a part of our lives forever. Using it to help, heal, and build strong relationships is a good start. It's true for them, and it's true for all of us.
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6 Videos For Talking to Kids About Cyberbullying
Discussing cyberbullying is a real critical thinking opportunity. Ask students essential questions that spark lively discussion. After each video, you can talk about things like these.
- What do you know about cyberbullying that you didn't before?
- What was the message you personally got from this video?
- Why do you suppose people bully others?
- Do you know someone who has experienced something like this?
- If you were in a position to help the person in the video, what would you do?
- Is there any real way to stop cyberbullying? Why or why not?
- What kind of anti-bullying message can you come up with?
- What are 3 things you want to start doing to stop cyberbullying?
Teens React to Bullying (Amanda Todd)
The story of Amanda Todd is infamous and beyond tragic. These kids who watch her video react with true honesty and compassion. It's both heartbreaking and uplifting. If you think kids don't care, this will change your mind.
Let's Fight It Together
This is an older one (2008) and very well done. It's deceiving because it looks like it may have a sadder conclusion than it does. Watch until the end. You'll see the power isn't in the hands of the bullies.
The Cyberbullying Virus
This is a good one for introducing the whole concept. It's quick and informative for addressing cyberbullying in school. Although almost 4 years old, it still hits the heart of the matter.
The Line
If you're a fan of beat-style poetry, this one is a winner. It actually is a real-life winner, too. This Mark Eshleman film was submitted to Trend Micro's "What's Your Story?" contest. See for yourself why it came in first.
Stand Up to Cyberbullying
This video is a nice quick one from OnGuardOnline. It's aimed at younger audiences. It packs some interesting info into its 1:20 runtime. What's interesting is it also addresses why bullies do what they do.
