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