In a bid to address the pervasive issue of bullying and empower parents in fostering a safe and supportive environment for their children, another compelling online session by Parenthrive took place on the 27th of January 2024. The session, titled "Together We Can : A Parenting Session on the topic of Bullying " featured Sarita Nair, a professional storyteller and founder of HSPA- Heritage Stories & Performing Arts and Stomp! The Drama Club. The event was designed to be highly interactive, engaging parents in discussions, activities, and reflections to equip them with valuable insights on understanding and combating bullying, targeting parents and children.
Key Highlights of the Session:
- Defining Bullying and Identifying its Forms:
Sarita Nair commenced the session by delving into the core aspects of bullying – what constitutes it and the various forms it can take. This foundational understanding was crucial for parents to recognize and address potential instances of bullying in their children's lives.
- Dealing with Past Trauma:
Acknowledging that parents might carry their own experiences of bullying, the session included guidance on dealing with past trauma. Sarita Nair provided strategies for parents to navigate their own emotional baggage, ensuring they approach the topic with a clear and empathetic perspective.
- Supporting Children Through Bullying:
The heart of the session revolved around equipping parents with practical tools to help their children navigate bullying situations. Practical examples were presented, illustrating effective ways to engage with children and provide the necessary support.
- Interactive Activities:
The session took a unique and engaging approach by incorporating mindful breathing exercises to improve focus and concentration to reflect on life. Attendees were encouraged to participate in visualizations, music, sketching, and writing down their thoughts. This multi-sensory approach added depth and creativity to the discussion.
Sarita Nair played the song True Colours by Cindy Lauper, evoking emotional reflection in the audience and revealing that even renowned personalities like Einstein, Steven Spielberg, and Christian Bale experienced bullying during childhood. This activity aimed to break the stigma surrounding bullying by showcasing that even the most successful individuals have faced similar challenges.
- Lively Conversations and Shared Experiences:
A highlight of the session was the lively conversations and discussions among parents. Attendees openly shared their own experiences and memories related to bullying, fostering a sense of community and empathy.
- The contribution of Schools and Teachers:
The discussion also touched upon the role of schools and teachers in preventing and addressing bullying. Participants explored the importance of creating a supportive school environment that actively works against bullying.
- The Lasting Impact of Bullying:
The session concluded with a poignant reminder of the lasting emotional scars that bullying can inflict, impacting not only a child's current well-being but also influencing their behaviour as adults. Sarita Nair emphasized the significance of addressing bullying early to prevent long-term consequences.
In summary, the "Together We Can" parenting session proved to be a powerful platform for parents to gain insights, share experiences, and equip themselves with practical tools to address and prevent bullying in their children's lives. Sarita Nair's unique blend of storytelling, interactive activities, and expert guidance created a space where parents felt empowered to take proactive steps in fostering a safe and nurturing environment for their children.
