Sensitive topics, like bullying, can sometimes be awkward or uncomfortable to bring up with your pre-teen. However, making sure your child understands what bullying looks like, how to stand up to it, and where to get help can prevent them from experiencing the negative consequences of bullying.2
Some of these questions might feel unnatural to bring up out of the blue (or even prompt some eye rolls and sighs): What does bullying mean to you? Why do you think kids bully each other? What do you usually do when you see bullying going on?
Luckily for you—the holidays are here and many holiday movies are FULL of bullies! A classic example is Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Watching Rudolph with your pre-teen this holiday season can help you bring up a conversation about bullying in a more natural way.
Bullying in Rudolph:
Example #1:
When Rudolph’s red nose is revealed, the other reindeer call him names and laugh. The P.E. teacher says he can no longer participate in reindeer games and SANTA even tells Rudolph’s father he should be ashamed!
Conversation Starters:
This scene is a very blatant example of bullying. Use this situation to talk about bullying directly with your teen and to find out how this issue might be effecting your child. Even asking one or two of these questions is a great start to opening the lines of communication about bullying and other tough topics.2
- Why do you think the other reindeer are making fun of/bullying Rudolph?
- What would you do if you saw another kid at school getting laughed at?
- How does it make you feel to see other kids bullied like Rudolph is?
- Have you ever left anyone out on purpose because they are different? Did you think that was bullying?
Example #2:
When the other elves find out that Hermey doesn’t like to make toys they chant “shame on you!” When he reveals he want to be a dentist instead, he is laughed at and told by his boss that he has to makes toys and is even told he can’t take a break.
Conversation Starters:
This is a great scene to ask general questions about your pre-teen’s daily life at school or about their feelings and aspirations. Encourage your pre-teen to continue to do what they love and offer opportunities to help them reach their goals.2
- What do you want to be when you grow up?
- What do you like best about yourself?
- Who do you hang out with at school?
- What is lunchtime like at school?
This is just one movie out there that can help prompt conversations about bullying with your pre-teen. If Rudolph isn’t your cup to tea, check out some other movies that address bullying like; Harry Potter, Stargirl, or The Sandlot. Adjust the conversation starters to fit whatever movie you select!
References:
1. Adapted from Article Published: December 10, 2015 Karolina Guillen, CACTC Intern
2.How to Prevent Bullying. U.S Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.stopbullying.gov/prevention/how-to-prevent-bullying
