Friendship and Other Weapons

Long before most school programs begin anti-bullying campaigns, young girls are getting a full education in social aggression. Girls as young as age five are experiencing acts of bullying, disguised as friendship, that shake the carefully laid foundations of their self-image, personal values, and beliefs about peer relationships.

Based on thought-provoking discussions, engaging games, strength-discovering exercises, and confidence-boosting fun, the hands-on activities in Friendship and Other Weapons build critical knowledge and friendship survival skills such as:

• Recognizing the Red Flags of Girl Bullying
• Responding Assertively to Bullying Behavior
• Realizing Personal Strengths
• Becoming an Ally to Others Facing Bullying
• Resolving Conflicts Directly
• Using Technology and Social Media Ethically

This photocopiable resource book provides educators, social workers and counsellors with a complete, ready-to-use group curriculum to help young girls aged 5–11 build constructive and fulfilling friendships.

Reviews

'Friendship and Other Weapons has a wealth of new activities that teach young girls how to navigate the dark side of friendship and stand up to bullying. With clear, simple instructions and powerful points to make about friendship and aggression, this curriculum is a must have for anyone working with young girls. I can't wait to try out some of the activities!'

—Rachel Simmons, author of Odd Girl Out: The Hidden Culture of Aggression in Girls

'Want a proven way to help girls feel powerful enough to stand up to friendship bullies? This is it. The variety of activities reaches girls with different learning styles. The positive approach equips both parents and teachers with the tools they need to help girls assertively call out and reject friendship bullying.'

—Nancy Gruver, Founder, New Moon Girls magazine and online community, www.newmoon.com

'Friendship and Other Weapons is a wonderful resource for educators, counseling professionals, parents, and group leaders who wish to address bullying and instil pro-social friendship skills in girls ages 5–11. I highly recommend it.'

—Trudy Ludwig, best-selling author of My Secret Bully