What’s on Your Mind?

Sometimes kids at school say mean things. How can I make them stop?

—Fed Up in France

Dear Fed Up,

You can’t make anyone do anything. But when you speak kindly, others might follow your example. Words are powerful. Especially when you use your words for good. Mean words can be hurtful, but kind words can be helpful, healing, and inspiring. Here are some tips to help you.

The Friend

Use Your Words

If you see someone being unkind, ask them to stop. Here are some things you can say. Try acting out times when you might say them.

“Please stop.”
“That’s not OK.”
“That wasn’t kind.”