Some years ago, I was working as a monitor in a summer football camp with kids around 8 to 10 years old. One day, I noticed that one of the boys was always alone. During breaks, he didn’t talk much, and nobody passed him the ball during matches. I started paying more attention and realised that some of the other boys were calling him names and laughing at him for being too slow or bad at football.
At first, he didn’t complain. He just stayed quiet. But I could see in his body language that he was feeling sad and excluded. So I decided to intervene without making it worse. I didn’t want to embarrass anyone in front of the group.
The next day, I made mixed teams on purpose and organised a game where every player had to touch the ball before the team could score. I also gave him a more active role and made some positive comments when he played well. Slowly, some kids started involving him more. Later, I had a short talk with the group about respect and teamwork, without pointing anyone. I asked how they would feel if they were left out.
What surprised me is that many of them didn’t realise their behavior was bad. After the talk, I saw real changes. He started smiling more, and he made two new friends that week.
This experience taught me that bullying can happen in very unseen ways, like exclusion or jokes. And that intervening early and in a calm way can really help.
As a future psychologist, I want to remember this moment. Sometimes, small actions make a big difference.
Indeed, small actions can make a big difference.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this powerful story, it's a great example of how meaningful it can be when adults notice and gently guide behavior. I really liked how you used a game and positive reinforcement to include the boy without embarrassing anyone. That kind of thoughtful intervention can have a long-lasting impact.
I also appreciate how you asked the group to reflect on what it feels like to be left out. Encouraging students to step into someone else's shoes is such an important step toward building empathy.
This kind of topic shouldn’t be ignored in classrooms, or even in places like gym class or during school breaks. It’s important that we continue creating activities where students work and play together in ways that promote connection and understanding.
I actually wrote about something similar yesterday, teaching empathy, forgiveness, and peer support can play an essential role in preventing bullying
You did an amazing job, Lluc. I’m sure that boy is truly grateful. I really enjoyed reading your post!
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