Daily TribuneAs parents, one of the most difficult truths to accept is that our own children can become victims of bullying or, sometimes, even the ones doing the bullying.
LOOK: A large 'No Bully Zone' is painted on the wall outside a school in Makati City on Wednesday, 21 August 2024.
KING RODRIGUEZ
Every parent dreams of sending their child to school with confidence and receiving them at home with a smile. We hope they return not only with new lessons but also with happy memories and lasting friendships. Yet the reality is that not every child experiences school as a safe place. For many, it is where fear, loneliness and bullying quietly begin.
Bullying is not simply a part of “growing up.” It leaves emotional wounds that can last for years. It affects a child’s confidence, academic performance, relationships and even mental health. Whether it comes through hurtful words, physical intimidation, exclusion or online harassment, its effects can follow children long after the school bell rings.
As parents, one of the most difficult truths to accept is that our own children can become victims of bullying or, sometimes, even the ones doing the bullying. Denial only delays healing. Acceptance opens the door to understanding, guidance and meaningful action.
I have always believed that generosity begins with kindness. We often think generosity means giving food, money or material things. But sometimes the greatest gift we can offer is compassion. A child who chooses to sit beside a classmate eating lunch alone is showing generosity. A student who stands up for someone being teased is giving courage. A teacher who notices the quiet child and asks, “Are you okay?” is extending a hand that could change a life.
History reminds us that small acts of kindness can leave lasting legacies. There are countless stories of adults who still remember the classmate who defended them from bullies or the teacher who believed in them when no one else did. Those simple moments of generosity became turning points that restored hope and self-worth.
Schools and families must work together. Parents should create homes where children feel safe enough to speak honestly without fear of punishment or judgment. Teachers and school administrators should continue building environments where respect, empathy, and accountability are practiced every day — not only during anti-bullying campaigns but throughout the school year.
When children witness adults treating one another with patience and respect, they are more likely to carry those same values into their classrooms. After all, kindness is learned not only through instruction but also through example.
The Bible reminds us in Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Those timeless words remain just as relevant in our schools today as they are in our homes.
Let us raise children who are not only academically prepared but also emotionally strong and compassionate. Let us teach them that true strength is never found in hurting others but in lifting them up. In the end, a generous heart is measured not by what it owns, but by how deeply it cares for those who need kindness the most.
Last week, the Alelee Aguilar Action Center released a podcast about the actions Las Piñas Public Schools have been working on to address bullying and how they are assisting students who are victims of bullying.
I spoke with Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Melody Cruz and CAA Principal Apollo de Guzman. Both are working hard towards a bullying-free school environment. The podcast can be watched on my Facebook Page, Alelee Aguilar.
