The line gets crossed.  Playful mutual teasing becomes hurtful, unkind and intentional.  It comes in a variety of forms; psychological, verbal or physical, and it can happen in person, through social media or texting.  As parents we are all horrified when the media informs us about another child or teen who has committed suicide out of the despair caused by bullying. It is one of our worst nightmares.

Art can be a very powerful tool to help both children and youth who have been bullied regain their self-confidence and rise above it’s effect. The You will Rise Project is a website where anyone can submit artwork, short stories, poetry, or any type of creative work about their experiences with bullying.  The focus of the  program seems to be most suitable for teens and in short interviews a number of them are clear that expressing their emotions about bullying through art has helped them.

This is one of those resources worth tucking into your parent toolbox even if you have younger children.  You never know when you may need it.