Annually in October, communities throughout the country unite to recognize National Bullying Prevention Month. National Bullying Prevention Month is a time dedicated to raising awareness, promoting kindness, and encouraging youth and adults to take a stand against bullying in all its forms. Bullying is defined as a form of repeated aggressive and violent behavior towards others and involves an imbalance of power (Ball & Bindler, 2008; Olweus, 1994; Selekman & Praeger, 2006).  This type of behavior affects millions of children and teens each year, leaving lasting impacts on mental health, academic performance, and self-esteem (Albayrak, S., Yildiz, A., & Erol, S.,2016). Bullying can occur in schools, online, or in social settings. No matter the form, bullying is a serious issue that should be recognized and addressed.

There are times when bullying behavior might get confused with horseplay or playful mocking that is a result of someone’s mishap. Although these incidents can create conflict and misunderstanding, bullying is very different.  According to the National Bullying Prevention Center, bullying is different from other non-threatening behaviors in the following ways. Conflict is a disagreement or argument in which both sides express their views with no negative intent. However, bullying is negative behavior directed by someone exerting power and control over another person's mental and physical wellbeing (www.pacerkidsagainstbullying.org).

With bullying, there is often a power imbalance between those involved. In many cases, students who bully others perceive their target as vulnerable in some way and often find satisfaction in harming them. As a result, it is extremely important that youth serving entities have access to resources to minimize the occurrence of bullying. To that end, the PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center initiated National Bullying Prevention Month in 2006. The campaign encourages schools, parents, and youth organizations to host events, share resources, and foster safe, inclusive environments so that all youth are safe and supported in their schools, communities, and online person (www.pacerkidsagainstbullying.org)..  

Recent data from the National Health Interview Survey shows that 34% of teenagers aged 12–17 reported being bullied in the past 12 months. The following list statistics and troubling disparities among groups:

• Girls are more likely to be bullied than boys (38.3% vs. 29.9%).
• Sexual and gender minority youth face significantly higher rates of bullying (47.1%) compared to their peers (30.0%).
• Students with developmental disabilities are also more vulnerable (44.4% vs. 31.3%).
• White non-Hispanic teens report the highest bullying rates among racial groups (39.6%), while Asian teens report the lowest (16.1%).

The mental health impact is profound:

• 29.8% of bullied teens experience symptoms of anxiety, compared to 14.5% of non-bullied teens.
• 28.5% of bullied teens report symptoms of depression, more than double the rate of their non-bullied peers.

One of the most powerful tools in the prevention of bullying is student voice. When young people feel heard and supported, they are more likely to speak up, seek help, and support others. Schools can foster this by creating safe spaces, encouraging open dialogue, and training staff to recognize and respond to bullying behavior effectively. Bullying prevention is not just a one-month effort, it’s a year-round commitment. By working together, we can build a culture of respect and kindness where every student feels safe, valued, and empowered. Let’s make this October a turning point. Let’s stand together against bullying.

Refences

Ball, J. W., & Bindler, R. C. (2008). Pediatric nursing—Caring for children (4th ed.). Pearson Prentice Hall. Bauer, S. N., Lozano, P., & Rivara, F. P

Albayrak, S., Yıldız, A., & Erol, S. (2016). Assessing the effect of school bullying prevention programs on reducing bullying. Children and youth services review, 63, 1-9.

“The more things change, the more they stay the same.” This phrase, attributed to French journalist and novelist Jean-Baptiste Alphonse Karr in an 1849 journal entry (www.studylight.org), reflects the enduring nature of societal patterns despite evolving circumstances. In the past, Labor Day signaled the end of summer vacation and the beginning of a new school year. Today, with many school districts starting in mid-August, Labor Day often marks the first school holiday for students, though many remain unaware of its historical significance.

Labor Day was first celebrated on September 5, 1882, in New York City. Organized by the Central Labor Union, it honored the social and economic achievements of American workers. The idea quickly gained traction across the country, with numerous states adopting the holiday before it became a national observance.

In 1894, following the nationwide Pullman Strike—a railroad labor protest that escalated into violence and required federal intervention—President Grover Cleveland signed Labor Day into law as a federal holiday. This move was, in part, an effort to reconcile with organized labor. Traditionally observed on the first Monday in September, Labor Day is now celebrated with parades, picnics, and barbecues. It serves as a time to honor all workers, from educators and healthcare professionals to tradespeople and afterschool service staff.

To all the dedicated staff, educators, mentors, and volunteers in afterschool programs: we at CASE for Kids recognize your unwavering commitment, compassion, and tireless efforts to support youth beyond the school day. You create safe spaces, spark curiosity, build confidence, and inspire young minds. Your work may sometimes go unnoticed, but your impact is immeasurable. Thank you for being the heart of afterschool—for showing up and uplifting our youth. This Labor Day, we honor you and proudly say: Happy Labor Day!

References

1. Jean Baptiste Alphonse Karr - 1911 Encyclopedia Britannica - StudyLight.org