- You can BeCool by:
- LOOKING COOL by calming yourself and breathing deeply. (have a detached, non-threatening demeanor
- THINKING COOL with positive self-talk and clear decision-making (use "non-blaming perceiving style" statements)
- ACTING COOL by choosing to use "Peer Pressure Refusal Skills":
- Saying "no" in a strong and firm voice
- Using body language that conveys "no"
- Shaking your head back and forth
- Using your hands to emphasize "no
- Folding your arms across your chest
- Keeping your body firm and rigid.
- Repeating "no as often as necessary ("Broken Record" Technique)
- Offering reasons for refusal that do not anger or put the bully on the defensive
- Suggesting an alternative action or walking away.
- You are COLD if you are bothered by the bully and don't say anything
- You are HOT if you blow up, yell or try to be a bigger bully. O You are COOL if you just handle peer pressure using "Peer Pressure Refusal Skills"
- Drawbacks of the HOT and COLD responses are: You are more likely to incite the bully to anger directed at you which could result in violence You become either the victim or match him/her in need You are acting in a way that gives you less control of your life
- Benefits of the COOL response to bullying include: Maintaining your right to act as you choose, stopping bullying behavior towards you, improving your self-esteem and self-respect, and protecting yourself from physical injury.
- With someone that you know is dangerous or with any stranger, say "no" and leave immediately. Nothing is worth getting hurt!
Independent Viewing of Video
Encourage students to view the video independently. You may also suggest that the students take the video home to teach their families the BeCool strategy. Have students practice the calming techniques along with the characters in the video.
Parent Education/Involvement
Consider showing the video and discussing the BeCool strategy at parent meetings, open houses, PTA meetings, etc.
Return to: Lesson 3: Independent Activities