Rude, Mean, or Bullying

In "Is it Rude, Is it Mean, or Is it Bullying", Signe Whitson, L.S.W., author of Passive Aggressive Diaries, through some real life examples, helps us differentiate between types of negative social behaviors.  Teaching politeness or kindness is very different from restoring an imbalance of power.  Having a keen understand of the difference between rudeness, meanness, and bullying will help us better support our children in their social experiences.  Children need us to respond appropriately as caring adults at school and at home.  Under- or over-reacting both have negative consequences.  It is important that we validate their experiences while helping them developing strategies such as speaking up, being considerate, reading social situations correctly, or getting help when they need it.