Bullying Survival Guides (No Fluff, Just Real Tools)
Elementary School: “Starter Kit for Standing Strong”
(Grades 2–5)
1. Use the Power of “Short & Strong” Words
Don’t argue. Don’t explain.
Look them in the eye and use a short, strong phrase:
“Stop.”
“Not okay.”
“Back off.”
Say it once, loud and clear. Then walk away. Bullies feed on reactions—don’t give them dessert.
2. Body Armor = Posture
Shoulders back, chin up, walk like you own your space.
Even if you’re nervous, your body says, “I’m not an easy target.”
Fake it until you make it actually works here.
3. Stick to Your Crew
Walk with friends. Eat with friends. Bus rides? Sit by someone safe.
Bullies hunt when you’re solo. Pack up, stay strong.
4. Tell Without Tattling
“Tattling” = trying to get someone in trouble.
“Telling” = trying to keep someone safe.
If it hurts, scares, or keeps happening, you tell—every single time until it stops.
5. Flip the Script
If you see someone else getting picked on, stand with them.
Even one kid standing nearby changes the whole scene.
Middle School: “Drama-Proof Your Space”
(Grades 6–8)
1. Own Your Reactions
Bullies want your fire. Don’t hand them the lighter.
No yelling, no roasting back. Just:
A calm stare
A smirk
Walking away like, “Not worth my time.”
2. Clapback? Think Twice
Comebacks can be fun—but they can also backfire.
Best line when you need one: “That’s cute.”
Shuts them down without giving them fuel.
3. Control Your Online World
Don’t feed trolls. Delete, block, mute—like taking out the trash.
Screenshot first (proof), then hit block.
4. Squad = Safety Net
Choose 2–3 solid friends who’ve got your back.
Make a pact: if one of you gets targeted, the rest step in or walk out with them.
5. Don’t Carry It Alone
Stress is heavy—dump some.
Tell a parent, coach, or counselor. Not because you’re weak—because you’re smart enough to use your resources.
High School: “Boss Level Strategies”
(Grades 9–12)
1. Read the Game
Some bullies chase status, others push buttons to feel powerful.
Knowing their game = you don’t play it.
Example: If they need an audience, walk away with the audience. Power gone.
2. Control Your Story
Don’t let rumors or posts control you.
Use your own voice:
Post your truth.
Laugh it off publicly if you can.
Keep receipts (screenshots) if it’s serious.
3. Pick Your Battles
Sometimes the win is ignoring. Sometimes it’s clapping back smart.
Golden rule: never go lower. Shade without sludge.
“Didn’t know you were still talking.”
“Wild. Anyway…”
4. Protect Your Future
Colleges, jobs, and teams all check your digital footprint.
Don’t let a bully drag you into posts that cost you later.
Rule: If you wouldn’t want your grandma or dream job to see it, don’t post it.
5. Build Your Circle
Real power isn’t going solo—it’s being connected.
Find your crew (friends, teammates, mentors) and lean in.
Want the ultimate flex? Be the one others know they can count on. Respect > popularity.
More to come… Check back in the future.
Additional Resources
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Helplines & Real-Time Support (Reach Out Now)
STOMP Out Bullying
Offers free, confidential support via online chat and phone—designed especially for kids and teens dealing with bullying or cyberbullying. StopBullying.gov+3NAESP+3StopBullying.gov+3kiwaniskids.org+15Find A Helpline+15Stomp Out Bullying+15Safe Place® TXT 4 HELP
A 24/7, no‑cost, anonymous text-based support service for youth in crisis. Find A HelplineCrisis Text Line / 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Confidential, free support by text, chat, or call for anyone facing overwhelming situations—bullying included. Find A Helpline+2StopBullying.gov+2 -
Trusted Websites With Tools & Guidance
StopBullying.gov
A central hub backed by the U.S. Department of Education, Health, and Justice. Offers guidance on how to recognize bullying, respond safely, and empower bystanders. SchoolSafety.gov+1SAMHSA’s “KnowBullying” App
A free app that builds confidence and resilience, with strategies to face bullying constructively. Center for Violence Prevention (CVP)+15StopBullying.gov+15Find A Helpline+15STOMP Out Bullying Website
Full of practical advice on responding to all types of bullying—online and in person—for students and schools. California Department of Education+15Stomp Out Bullying+15Find A Helpline+15 -
Empowerment & Peer-Support Resources
PACER’s Teens Against Bullying
A place created especially for teens—edgy, engaging, and educational—where they can find advice and peer encouragement. Find A Helpline+8Parent Info Center+8Pacer+8Bystander Revolution
Crowdsources real advice from peers—videos and tips on how students can safely step in and support others when they see bullying happening. WikipediaKidpower
Teaches safety, confidence, and boundary‑setting through age‑appropriate curriculum and workshops. Proven to build skills that help prevent bullying through emotional and physical empowerment. Wikipedia+6Wikipedia+6Wikipedia+6Stand For Courage
Offers lesson plans and de-escalation training that teach students how to turn from bystanders into active allies. wired.com+8Wikipedia+8StopBullying.gov+8