In 2024, I had a conversation with a friend that completely shifted how I communicate, not just with my kids, but with everyone.

We were talking about why so many people struggle to compromise, collaborate, or even get along. His answer was simple, and honestly, uncomfortable in the best way.

He explained that he was taught as a child to be very intentional with his words. The goal was to eliminate miscommunication as much as possible. The problem is that most people are never taught this skill. Some of us learn it later in life out of necessity, and many never learn it at all.

He pointed out something that stuck with me. Most people use words that do not actually express what they mean.

Shortly after that conversation, I heard a life coach say something that connected all the dots for me. People often listen to debate, not to understand.

That sentence alone explained years of communication challenges I had experienced in personal and professional relationships.

Once I became awa...

Bullying today isn’t limited to playgrounds or classrooms. It follows children online—through social media, group chats, and shared content. And often, misinformation and fake news are the catalysts.

A rumor, half-truth, or deliberately false story can escalate quickly, turning harmless misunderstandings into emotional harm and social exclusion. Kids who don’t pause to think critically before believing or sharing information may unknowingly participate in bullying.

Misinformation vs. Fake News

Understanding the difference is the first step in prevention:

Misinformation – False or inaccurate information shared unintentionally. For example, a child repeating a rumor they didn’t know was untrue.

Fake News – Deliberately false information designed to mislead, embarrass, or manipulate. For example, a fabricated story about a student circulated to isolate them or ruin their reputation.

Both types of content can fuel bullying and harm emotional well-being.

Why This Matters for Kids

Ch...

We’re living in a time when bullying, discrimination, and dehumanization are on full display—in schools, online, and even in positions of power. But what scares me more than the actions of bullies... is the silence of bystanders.

We are living in a time when bullying, discrimination, and dehumanization are visible everywhere. They show up in schools, online spaces, workplaces, and even in positions of authority. What is often most damaging is not the behavior itself, but the silence that surrounds it.

Silence teaches children and adults that staying quiet is safer than doing what is right. Over time, this silence becomes normalized, and harm continues unchecked.

Understanding the bystander effect is critical if we want to raise confident, compassionate, and bully-proof kids.

A Story That Reveals the Power of Silence

A woman recently shared a story from when she was sixteen years old that captures the bystander effect in a powerful way.

Her classroom desks were arranged in a circl...

As summer ends and a new school year approaches, excitement and anxiety often mix for kids and parents alike. New routines, friendships, and academic challenges can feel overwhelming. The good news is that thriving in school is not about perfection. It is about preparation, support, and connection.

Here are six practical strategies to help your child succeed and feel confident, safe, and supported this school year.

1. Establish a Routine Early

Summer schedules often shift later bedtimes and relaxed mornings. Returning to school is smoother when routines are reestablished gradually.

Tips:

• Start adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times a couple of weeks before school starts
• Create a calm morning routine including breakfast and a few minutes of quiet preparation
• Consistency helps reduce anxiety, improve focus, and create emotional safety

2. Address Academic Concerns

Academic worries can create stress, especially with new grades or subjects. Early support prevents frustration from...

Why the Phrase “Snitches Get Stitches” Is So Dangerous

Most of us have heard the phrase “snitches get stitches.” It is often said casually, joked about, or passed down as a rule of loyalty.

But pause for a moment and really think about what that phrase teaches children.

It teaches silence over safety. Fear over responsibility. Compliance over compassion.

What many people fail to understand is that reporting harm is not snitching. When someone speaks up to protect themselves or others, they are seeking safety, not punishment.

The Reality of Bystanders and Bullying

Research consistently shows that bystander intervention is far less common than it should be. Many students witness bullying, harassment, or harmful behavior and choose not to report it or intervene.

Schools and organizations work hard to encourage students to speak up, yet the fear of being labeled a “snitch” often outweighs the desire to do what is right.

This culture of silence does not exist by accident. It is rein...

What did you believe about bullies when you were growing up?

I will be honest. Before I began researching bullying deeply, I believed that kids who bullied others were simply not being parented well.

I know. Judgy.

I assumed they were mirroring behavior they saw at home or copying an older sibling or family member. I thought bullies were just “bad kids” who enjoyed making others miserable.

And no one ever challenged that belief.
No one ever talked to me about bullying or the kids behind the behavior.

What I have learned since then completely changed my perspective.

Bullies Are Still Kids Who Are Learning

The truth is this.
Children who bully are still children.

They are not defined by their behavior. They are often kids who have not yet learned how to manage big emotions, navigate stress, or cope with hurt in healthy ways.

That does not excuse the behavior.
But it does change how we respond to it.

Not all children bully for the same reasons. Some act out because they are overwhe...

Bullying can leave deep emotional and physical scars and sometimes parents don’t realize it’s happening until the damage is already severe.

Recently, a parent shared her story. She had no idea her child was being bullied consistently for over a year. By the time she discovered the truth, her child was experiencing panic attacks, insomnia, frequent illness, and extreme anxiety about attending school.

Even more heartbreaking, some teachers had been part of the bullying.

This story is a powerful reminder: parents must actively listen, observe, and ask the right questions to protect their children.

Why Hidden Bullying Can Go Unnoticed

Children often hide bullying for many reasons:

• Fear of retaliation or escalating the situation
• Feeling ashamed or embarrassed
• Not knowing how to explain the problem
• Assuming adults won’t understand or help

Parents may also misread early warning signs or downplay incidents, thinking they aren’t “serious enough.” Unfortunately, bullying can esc...

It’s been a heavy week, hasn’t it? 

The news can be overwhelming for all of us. Recent events like the tragic shootings in Uvalde, Texas highlight how heavy the headlines can feel. Parents often feel the urge to protect their children by shielding them from the news. While this instinct comes from love, it’s important to remember: children are already aware of what’s happening, often through social media or conversations with peers.

Even when kids seem calm, they may carry fears and confusion. Checking in with them regularly helps ensure they feel safe, heard, and supported.

Why Talking About World Problems Matters

Children are naturally curious about the world. Ignoring difficult topics does not make them safer, it can lead to misinformation, heightened anxiety, and feelings of isolation.

When parents and guardians talk openly, they provide:

• Clarity – helping children separate fact from rumor
• Reassurance – showing that adults are actively thinking about safety
• Empowerment – ...

Some parents do what they think will help stop it, not realizing their actions can make the situation worse. 

That’s what happened to a mother who decided to directly speak to her child’s bully. 

Perhaps she wasn’t aware that boarding a school bus was considered trespassing. That’s reason enough for her to be arrested or fined (depending on the state laws). 

But this mother went further. She began verbally assaulting the 11-year old child and she ended up fighting the child (physical assault). 

The whole thing was caught on video. But, let’s assume the child hit her first. As an adult, what are the chances that the justice system will side with the mother? 

You see, I have read many news articles about similar situations because, in my opinion, parents are not well aware of efficient ways to manage bullying situations involving their children and schools are not taking bullying complaints seriously enough. 

This is why bullying awareness and prevention education needs to be offer...