It can be hard for kids to recognise bullying when it’s happening, let alone know what to do about it.
That’s why building confidence is such an essential part of any anti-bullying strategy, and martial arts is a powerful tool in giving kids the skills to stand up for themselves and others.
💡 What is an Upstander?
An Upstander is someone who takes action when they see bullying, rather than standing by. This isn’t always easy—especially for kids.
The fear of being targeted themselves or being labelled a ‘tattle-tale’ can hold them back. But through consistent training, we can teach children how to safely and confidently step in, using simple, effective strategies like:
- Distracting the bully by redirecting their attention 🔄
- Stepping in with a friend and offering support 🙌
- Asking for help from a trusted adult 👨🏫
These techniques are straightforward but powerful. Encouraging children to act kindly, with courage, helps break the cycle of bullying and shows that even small actions can make a big difference.