sibling bullying facts
Bullying is a major issue that affects individuals of all ages and can occur in various settings, including schools, workplaces, and even within families. While much attention has been given to bullying among peers, sibling bullying is also a prevalent problem that often goes unnoticed and unaddressed. In fact, studies have shown that sibling bullying occurs more frequently than bullying by peers, with approximately 32% of children reporting that they have been bullied by a sibling.
So, what exactly is sibling bullying? It is defined as any repeated, intentional, and aggressive behavior towards a sibling that causes physical, emotional, or psychological harm. This can include physical violence, verbal harassment, exclusion, and manipulation. This type of bullying can have serious and long-lasting effects on the victim, including low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.
Here are some shocking facts about sibling bullying that highlight the seriousness of this issue:
1. Sibling bullying is more common than bullying by peers: As mentioned earlier, studies have shown that sibling bullying occurs more frequently than bullying by peers. This is because siblings often spend a significant amount of time together and have a close relationship, making it easier for bullying behavior to occur.
2. It can start at a young age: Research has found that sibling bullying can begin as early as the age of two. This is concerning because it means that children are exposed to bullying behavior at a very young age, which can have a significant impact on their development and well-being.
3. It can continue into adulthood: Many people believe that sibling bullying is a normal part of growing up and that it will eventually stop as the siblings get older. However, research has shown that this is not always the case. Sibling bullying can continue into adulthood, with some studies reporting that up to 40% of adults have experienced bullying from a sibling.
4. It can have serious consequences: Sibling bullying can have a lasting impact on the victim’s mental health and well-being. Studies have shown that victims of sibling bullying are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. They may also have difficulty forming and maintaining relationships and have a higher risk of developing mental health disorders such as borderline personality disorder.
5. It can be just as harmful as bullying by peers: While sibling bullying may not receive as much attention as bullying by peers, it can be just as harmful, if not more. This is because siblings often have a close and intimate relationship, making the bullying behavior more hurtful and personal.
6. It can take different forms: Sibling bullying can take many forms, including physical, verbal, and emotional. Physical bullying can involve hitting, kicking, and pushing, while verbal bullying can include name-calling, teasing, and insults. Emotional bullying can include exclusion, manipulation, and spreading rumors.
7. It can be a result of parental favoritism: Parental favoritism is a common issue in families, and it can often lead to sibling bullying. When one child is favored over the others, it can create resentment and jealousy among siblings, which can manifest in the form of bullying behavior.
8. It is often overlooked: Sibling bullying is often overlooked by parents and other adults, as it is seen as a normal part of sibling relationships. However, this type of behavior should not be dismissed or ignored as it can have serious consequences for both the victim and the bully.
9. It can lead to sibling rivalry: Sibling bullying can create a toxic and competitive relationship between siblings, leading to constant conflict and rivalry. This can have a significant impact on the family dynamic and can cause tension and stress for everyone involved.
10. It can be a cycle: Research has found that individuals who have been victims of sibling bullying are more likely to become bullies themselves. This creates a cycle of bullying that can continue through generations if not addressed and stopped.
11. It can affect the entire family: Sibling bullying not only affects the victim and the bully but also the entire family. It can create a tense and hostile environment at home, and parents may feel helpless and unsure of how to intervene.
12. It is often unreported: Many victims of sibling bullying do not report the behavior to their parents or other adults. This can be due to fear of retaliation, shame, or the belief that nothing will be done about it. As a result, the bullying behavior continues, and the victim suffers in silence.
13. It can have an impact on academic performance: Sibling bullying can also have a negative impact on the victim’s academic performance. The stress and anxiety caused by the bullying behavior can make it difficult for the victim to focus on their studies, leading to lower grades and academic achievement.
14. It can be a form of domestic violence: In extreme cases, sibling bullying can be a form of domestic violence. This occurs when the bullying behavior becomes severe and escalates to physical violence, causing serious harm to the victim.
15. It can be prevented: While sibling bullying may seem like a difficult issue to address, it can be prevented. Parents can play a crucial role in preventing sibling bullying by promoting positive sibling relationships, setting clear rules and consequences for bullying behavior, and intervening when necessary.
In conclusion, sibling bullying is a serious issue that can have lasting effects on the victim’s well-being, relationships, and academic performance. It is important for parents and other adults to recognize the signs of sibling bullying and take action to prevent and address it. By creating a safe and supportive environment at home, we can help break the cycle of sibling bullying and promote healthy sibling relationships.
best books for 11 12 year olds
As children move towards their teenage years, their reading preferences and abilities start to evolve. The books that appealed to them as 8 or 9 year olds may not hold the same level of interest anymore. This is the age where they are looking for more complex characters, engaging storylines, and relatable themes. With that in mind, here are some of the best books for 11-12 year olds that will capture their attention and keep them hooked until the very end.
1. “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio
This New York Times bestseller is a heartwarming and powerful story about a boy named August Pullman who was born with a facial deformity. It follows his journey as he enters school for the first time in fifth grade and has to deal with the challenges of being different. “Wonder” is a must-read for every 11-12 year old as it teaches valuable lessons about kindness, acceptance, and the true meaning of beauty.
2. “The Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan
This book is the first in the popular “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” series and is a perfect choice for young readers who love adventure, mythology, and action. The story follows Percy, a twelve-year-old boy who discovers that he is a demigod, the son of a mortal and a Greek god. With the help of his friends, Percy sets out on a quest to find Zeus’s lightning bolt and prevent a war between the gods. This book is sure to capture the imagination of any 11-12 year old.
3. “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” by Jeff Kinney
This series has become a modern classic for young readers, and for a good reason. The books are written in the form of a diary of a middle school student named Greg Heffley, and they are filled with funny and relatable anecdotes about school, family, and friendship. With its simple writing style and hilarious illustrations, “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” is a hit among 11-12 year olds and a great choice for reluctant readers.
4. “The Giver” by Lois Lowry
“The Giver” is a thought-provoking and dystopian novel that explores the concept of a perfect society and the cost of achieving it. The story follows Jonas, a twelve-year-old boy who lives in a seemingly ideal world with no pain, suffering, or choice. However, as he starts his training to become the next Receiver of Memory, he uncovers the dark secrets of his community. This book is a must-read for 11-12 year olds as it challenges their beliefs and makes them think about the world around them.
5. “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins
This award-winning novel is a gripping and fast-paced read that follows sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen as she volunteers for the Hunger Games, a brutal competition where children fight to the death. Set in a dystopian world, this book explores themes of survival, rebellion, and sacrifice. “The Hunger Games” is a popular choice among 11-12 year olds and has even been adapted into a successful movie franchise.
6. “The Invention of Hugo Cabret” by Brian Selznick
This unique and visually stunning book tells the story of a twelve-year-old boy named Hugo who lives in a Paris train station, where he tends to the clocks. Hugo’s life changes when he meets a mysterious girl and discovers a secret that links his past to his present. “The Invention of Hugo Cabret” is a mix of illustrations and text and is a perfect choice for 11-12 year olds who enjoy a bit of mystery and history.
7. “Holes” by Louis Sachar
This Newbery Medal-winning book follows Stanley Yelnats, a boy who is sent to a juvenile detention camp for a crime he didn’t commit. At the camp, he is forced to dig holes every day as punishment, but as he starts to uncover the truth behind the camp’s purpose, he realizes that there is more to his punishment than meets the eye. “Holes” is a humorous, heartwarming, and thought-provoking read that will keep 11-12 year olds engaged from start to finish.
8. “A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle
This classic science fiction novel follows the journey of Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and her friend Calvin as they travel through time and space to find Meg’s missing father. Along the way, they encounter strange creatures and face challenges that test their courage and strength. “A Wrinkle in Time” is a timeless tale that has captivated young readers for decades and is a must-read for every 11-12 year old.
9. “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling
No list of books for 11-12 year olds is complete without mentioning the famous Harry Potter series. The first book in the series introduces readers to the world of magic and follows the adventures of Harry, a young wizard who discovers his true identity and fights against the dark forces that threaten his world. With its relatable characters, magical setting, and engaging plot, “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” is a must-read for every preteen.
10. “Hoot” by Carl Hiaasen
This funny and heartwarming story follows Roy, a new kid in town who gets caught up in a mission to save a group of endangered owls from being destroyed by a construction project. Along the way, he makes unexpected friends and learns valuable lessons about courage and standing up for what is right. “Hoot” is a great choice for 11-12 year olds who enjoy stories about friendship and the environment.
These ten books are just a few of the many amazing choices for 11-12 year olds. They cover a range of genres and themes, ensuring that there is something for every young reader. Whether your child is a reluctant reader or a bookworm, these books will capture their imagination and keep them hooked until the very end. So, go ahead and introduce them to these fantastic stories, and watch as they fall in love with reading all over again.
activities for toddlers for thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time of year when families come together to give thanks and celebrate all that they are grateful for. It is a time to reflect on the blessings in our lives and to spend quality time with loved ones. For parents of toddlers, this can be a particularly special time as they watch their little ones experience the holiday for the first time. However, it can also be a bit challenging to keep toddlers entertained and engaged during a holiday that is often centered around food and conversation. That’s why we have put together this guide to activities for toddlers for Thanksgiving, to help make the holiday more enjoyable for both parents and little ones.
1. Thanksgiving Crafts
Crafts are a great way to keep toddlers entertained and engaged while also being a fun way to celebrate the holiday. There are many easy and age-appropriate crafts that can be done with toddlers for Thanksgiving. Some ideas include making handprint turkeys, creating paper plate pilgrim hats, or making a thankful tree where toddlers can add leaves with things they are thankful for. These crafts not only provide a fun activity, but they also help teach toddlers about the meaning of Thanksgiving and the importance of gratitude.
2. Sensory Bins
Toddlers love to explore and use their senses, so creating a Thanksgiving themed sensory bin can be a hit with them. You can fill a large plastic container with items such as dried corn, beans, leaves, and small toys in fall colors. Toddlers can use their hands to dig through the bin and explore the different textures and objects. You can also add small cups or scoops for them to practice pouring and transferring skills. This activity is not only entertaining but also helps with fine motor skills and sensory development.
3. Thanksgiving Books
Reading is a great way to introduce toddlers to new concepts and ideas, and there are many books that are perfect for Thanksgiving. Look for books that have simple and colorful illustrations and are age-appropriate for your toddler. Some popular titles include “10 Fat Turkeys” by Tony Johnston, “The Very First Thanksgiving Day” by Rhonda Gowler Greene, and “The Thankful Book” by Todd Parr. Reading these books with your toddler can help spark conversations about Thanksgiving and what it means to be thankful.
4. Gratitude Scavenger Hunt
A gratitude scavenger hunt is a fun way to teach toddlers about gratitude while also keeping them active and engaged. Create a list of items for them to find around the house or outside that they can be thankful for. For example, the list could include things like a leaf, a toy, a family photo, or a favorite food. Toddlers can collect the items and then share why they are thankful for each one. This activity not only teaches gratitude but also encourages toddlers to use their observation skills.
5. Thanksgiving Baking
Thanksgiving is a time for delicious food, and toddlers can be included in the cooking and baking process. Simple recipes such as no-bake pumpkin pie or turkey-shaped sugar cookies are perfect for little helpers. Toddlers can assist with measuring ingredients, stirring, and decorating. This activity not only keeps them busy but also teaches them about following directions, math, and cooperation.
6. Thankful Tree
Creating a thankful tree is a great way to incorporate gratitude into your Thanksgiving celebrations. Start by drawing a tree trunk on a large piece of paper or cardboard, and then cut out leaf shapes from construction paper. Each day leading up to Thanksgiving, have your toddler write or draw something they are thankful for on a leaf and then attach it to the tree. This activity can be a daily reminder to be thankful for all the blessings in our lives.
7. Thanksgiving Parade
Many cities have Thanksgiving parades, and this can be a fun and exciting experience for toddlers. They will love seeing the large floats, marching bands, and giant balloons. If there is not a parade in your area, you can create your own mini parade at home. Toddlers can make their own floats using cardboard boxes or decorate their bikes or scooters with Thanksgiving-themed decorations. They can then march or ride through the neighborhood, spreading holiday cheer.
8. Nature Walk
Going for a nature walk is a great way to get toddlers outside and active while also enjoying the beautiful fall weather. Take a walk around your neighborhood or visit a local park to look for signs of fall, such as colorful leaves, acorns, or pinecones. Toddlers can collect these items and then use them for crafts or sensory activities later. You can also use this opportunity to talk about the changing seasons and how we can be thankful for the beauty around us.
9. Thanksgiving Songs and Music
Toddlers love to sing and dance, and there are many Thanksgiving songs and music that can be enjoyed together. Some popular songs include “We Are Thankful” by The Kiboomers and “Thanksgiving is Here” by Super Simple Songs. Toddlers can also create their own instruments using household items like pots and pans, and then play along with the music. This activity is not only fun but also helps with language development and coordination.
10. Giving Back
Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks, but it is also a time to give back to those in need. Toddlers can learn about the importance of helping others by participating in a charitable activity. This could include donating non-perishable food items to a local food bank, making cards for nursing home residents, or participating in a charity walk. These activities not only teach toddlers about the joy of giving but also help instill a sense of empathy and kindness.
In conclusion, there are many activities for toddlers that can be enjoyed during Thanksgiving. From crafts and baking to outdoor activities and giving back, there are endless ways to keep toddlers entertained and engaged while also teaching them about the holiday and the importance of gratitude. By incorporating these activities into your family’s Thanksgiving traditions, you can create lasting memories and instill important values in your little ones. Happy Thanksgiving!