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Empowerment Strategies for Kids Who Are Picked On
An Excerpt From The Kids' Guide to Working Out Conflicts
By Naomi Drew, M.A.
Four key things to rehearse are assertive words, a steady voice, eye contact and strong body posture.
Assertive Words
Here are a few examples of things you can say when someone tries to pick on you:
- "Don't talk to me that way. Do you understand?"
- "I totally disagree."
- "I'm not going to listen to this stuff."
- "I'm not going to take this."
- "Your words are meaningless to me."
- "It seems like you're enjoying trying to make me feel bad, but it's not working."
- "Stop it."
Steady Voice
Work on keeping your voice firm and strong without shouting. You want your tone of voice to communicate that you're in control (even if you don't feel that way inside). The more you practice and use an assertive voice, the more in charge you'll feel. 
Eye Contact
It's important to look directly at the person when you speak. Looking down or away removes the power of your wods.
