When it comes to bullying, many kids do not know how to react.
Learn to stand up and stand out against bullying at a free bullying prevention seminar, hosted by Rahn’s Black Belt Academy on Nov. 17.
The seminar is part of WTTU Martial Arts’ program to educate communities on preventing bullying behaviour.
Based on the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program, students will learn how to spot bullying, how to react to it and how to put a stop to it.
One in three kids is affected by bullying and “the impact is enormous,” said Shane Rahn, chief instructor at Rahn’s Black Belt Academy.
Consequences can include anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, physical ailments and lower academic achievement, he said.
According to Dr. Dan Olweus, founder of the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program, 60 per cent of boys identified as bullies in middle school commit at least one crime by the time they are 24. He also says that victims of bullies are usually younger or physically weaker than their attackers. They lack the social skills to develop supportive friendships and cannot deal with the situation themselves.
These issues and others will be addressed during the seminar.
“Through age appropriate instruction, direct training and open houses such as this one, collectively WTTU licensed schools around the world hope to have a significant impact on reducing the extent of bullying and victimization,” Rahn said.
The seminar is for kids ages four to 13 and is being held at 4:30 p.m. at Langley Christian School, 22702 48 Ave. Only 150 spots are available. To register call 604-532-0172.