By Jessy McCulloch, Autism Home Support Services
Last week, you learned that people on the autism spectrum are especially vulnerable to bullying. This week, let’s talk about what you can do to help if your loved one or you are dealing with bullying.
From that toolkit are Top Ten Facts Parents, Educators, and Students Need to Know:
1. The Facts– Students with disabilities are much more likely to be bullied than their nondisabled peers.
2. Bullying affects a student’s ability to learn.
3. The Definition – bullying based on a student’s disability may be considered harassment.
4. The Federal Laws – disability harassment is a civil rights issue.
5. The State Laws – students with disabilities have legal rights when they are a target of bullying.
6. The adult response is important.
7. The Resources – students with disabilities have resources that are specifically designed for their situation.
8. The Power of Bystanders – more than 50% of bullying situations stop when a peer intervenes.
9. The importance of self-advocacy.
10. You are not alone.
You can read the toolkit in full, and download further information and resources at autismspeaks.org!
“Every step towards a bully free world will help a child with special needs live free from fear and torment.”
Source: www.autismspeaks.org
