Let’s face it, bullying in schools and aggression are on the rise in a post-Covid-19 classroom. Secondly, these two are just the symptoms of a much bigger problem that people seem to be ignoring.
We surveyed schools all across Pakistan and asked them two simple questions:
Every school we contacted told us that bullying and aggression have at least doubled after Covid-19. Moreover, schools informed us that students show this by name-calling, verbal and physical abuse. They now consider stealing a regular thing and do not feel any guilt. Ignoring teachers’ instructions is another behavior that increased significantly after the pandemic.
“They seem to be living in a world of their own, where they can be careless, if at all, for other people’s needs and feelings.” That is what we heard principals and teachers telling us from all over the country. So what has caused these behaviors to skyrocket during the pandemic? There are multiple reasons for that, but three are most important.
1. Lack of outdoor activities caused obesity and poor self-image among children. For such children, bullying and aggression are a way to gain self-recognition. In other words, suppressing others is a way to exhibit your power. Economic hardship has to be at the top as creating a ripple effect. Many families lost their livelihood during these two years. Moreover, inflation has deteriorated people’s buying power. It has caused frustration and uncertainty. Adults are anxious and frustrated. Consequently, this frustration has trickled down to children, and now it’s their turn to mirror the same behavior in the classroom.
2. Videos Games have taken up most of the children’s time during these two years. Furthermore, the game that has been a hot favorite among children is Pubg. If you are not familiar with this game, here is a brief introduction to this highly addictive online video game. Pubg is very violent, period. Playing this game for hours has turned children numb and violent. They play out the identical sequences in the classroom without realizing what they are doing.
The question that arises is: How to stop Bullying in Schools?
1. First things first, the kids need a quick booster of self-respect. To do that, use positive language with children as much as possible. Here are some examples:
● You are great
● You are wonderful
● Yes, you can do it
● Give it a shot, and I am sure you can achieve it
● You are looking great
● I like it when you smile
● We want to know what’s on your mind or share your ideas with us
● You have done a great job
● Yes, that’s good work, and you will do even better if you keep trying
2. Then you need to do lots of storytelling with children. Storytelling is effective in developing children’s imagination. Research shows that imaginative people are calmer and more caring.
You can choose stories of people who have acted positively under challenging times, people who have enjoyed caring for others. You will be surprised to see how significant the impact of stories with positive role models on children is.
3. Arts and crafts are definitely a great way to help children get rid of aggression. Higher thinking skills trigger when children get involved in arts and crafts activities. Furthermore, there is a sense of achievement when a child completes and displays a project.
Printable art and craft worksheets:
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4. At least an hour of outdoor physical activity is crucial for children of this age. Running, team sports, martial arts, and aerobics are crucial for reading, writing, and mathematics. Here’s a two-in-one method. Through these videos, you can do exercises and learn letters and numbers.
Aggression and bullying in schools are symptoms of a deeper problem. Let’s not ignore them or take them lightly. Otherwise, they can become a lifelong habit. One thing is for sure, individuals with these symptoms fail in life.
The few simple steps mentioned above can help you turn around a child’s personality; therefore, let’s not waste any time. Try using these simple strategies with children as soon as possible.