Dear reader,
I know someone who was in this exact situation, and I know how she got through it – today she’s one of the most popular kids in her class.
She became friends with another girl who had the same problem, and that boosted her confidence. She also made a list of sentences to encourage herself, like: “I can do it, I’m doing great,” and so on. And most important: she and her friend ignored whatever the others said or did or laughed about – they just didn’t react.
I hope this helps you, and good luck!
— A reader
I think you should try not to let it get to you so much. What I mean is, if kids are mean, try not to react, because sometimes when kids see that their words affect you, it makes them keep going. And if it doesn’t stop, tell a teacher or your parents – that’s not tattling, it’s getting help.
Good luck!
— A reader
When I was little, other kids teased me all the time and took advantage of me. They took my bike and the book I brought to class, and things like that. My mom tried to throw me a birthday party so kids would make friends with me, but some didn’t come, and the ones who came just wanted the candy. Later my parents moved me to a different school, and I decided that there I wouldn’t let kids hurt me – and I really did get off to a good start. Today I have lots of friends. I’m not saying you should switch schools (that’s complicated, it has downsides, and it’s your parents’ decision).
What I mean is: decide that from today you’re making a fresh start and won’t let kids push you around. A lot depends on how you feel inside and what you show on the outside. If you feel friendly and confident, kids sense it and treat you that way.
— A reader
