There is a very real and important difference between teasing and bullying. Teasing is done between friends where both children are involved in the teasing of each and there is no ill intent on either side. It is often short lived, an inside joke or one just made a silly mistake. Teasing is something my friends and I do without hesitation and we all know that it is in fun and love. The fact that we know is what makes it teasing and not bullying. Bullying is when a child or (more often than it ever should be) an adult teases or physically harms another child or adult with ill intent. When something is done or said with the strict purpose of inflicting some kind of harm that is bullying.
If a teacher sees two students who are relaxed and laughing it should be obvious they are friends and getting along fine. If there is tension in their shoulders or one or both are frowning or most obvious if one is crying the teacher should investigate what is happening. Simply separating the children can provide a safe haven for the child to admit if he/she is being bullied or not.
The first instance of bullying should be brought to the attention of the child only. He or she may not know they are bullying and should be given a chance to learn and make the change themselves. If they continue to behave in the same way, especially towards the same child the parents should be told immediately and every effort should be taken to help the child and not just punish them as that rarely ever solves problems.
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