Anti-Bullying; 6 books to add to your class reading list
A common worry for children in school, bullying can be something that has a dramatic effect on mental health and wellbeing. Not only this, but bullying impacts children’s progress and learning over time, leading to a loss of self-esteem.
Schools already do lots of work in this area, are quick to resolve problems and are supportive of children. Stories can provide another avenue to tackle this saturated topic; providing the opportunity for greater empathy and understanding. Stories create distance between the children and the topic, meaning they are more able to take part in impactful discussions.
So, we’ve put together a list of some great books around the topic of bullying to add to your class reading list. We’ve included themes such as assertiveness, peer pressure, fears, confidence and more, as they all feed in to and from bullying.
Use these books during Anti Bullying Week in November or all year round!
Using books to support children’s understanding of bullying
Peggy the Always Sorry Pidgeon by Wendy Meddour and Carmen Saldana
Age Range: EYFS and KS1
This story is a lovely introduction to the concept of standing up for yourself. It helps children to understand that saying sorry might not always be the best response, especially when faced with a bully. This complicated idea is easily unpacked with fun illustrations and engaging text.
The New Girl by Nicola Davies and Cathy Fisher
Age Range: KS1 and KS2
We love the poignant illustrations in this book, such simplicity and complexity rolled in to one – they could easily be the basis for an art project! The story mirrors the illustrations’ depths, looking at the relationship between a new girl and the rest of the class. It shows the girl’s loneliness and strength in the face of the class’s harsh words. We think this is a great book for both KS1 and KS2, opening up great debate and self reflection.
The Girl at the Front of the Class by Onjali Q. Rauf and Pippa Curnick=
Age range: KS1 and KS2
A lovely story about a young boy who wants to help the new girl who has started in his class. The only thing is the little girl is sad and doesn’t want to play or speak. Can the young boy work out how to support her in a way that shows empathy and understanding for what she is going through?
This wonderful story will stay with you for a long time after you have turned the last page. A beautiful book about how we understand other people’s needs and show up as an empathetic friend.
Sam Wu is NOT afraid of spiders by Katie and Kevin Tsang
Age Range: LKS2
A funny tale that will engage even the most reluctant of readers! This enjoyable story addresses fears and friendship worries; helping children to understand that bullies are often the ones feeling scared too.
Age Range: KS2
A beautiful chapter book about a young boy called James who is navigating bullies and family pressure. He takes solace with his beloved Nan, but as she becomes poorly will James be able to be his true self and speak out? A wonderful book for a class discussion that will build empathy and understanding.
Hazel Hill is Gonna Win This One by Maggie Horne
Age Range: UKS2
Perfect for exploring online bullying and standing up for yourself, this is a great pacy read for UKS2
Why are stories a good way to explore bullying?
Bullying can be a sensitive and emotive topic that children often find it difficult to open up about. It can also be a very nuanced topic – as adults, we know that behaviour is a form of communication, but how do we help children to understand this mature take on the reasons behind why some people are mean? Books provide the perfect scaffold to have this conversation; allowing us to break down what is really happening when people bully. Talking about a character’s experiences instead of our own promotes richer discussion and removes any sensitivities or embarrassment children might feel.
Books also give children the opportunity to see a full story arc; from beginning to problem to resolution. This provides ample discussion points so that children can reflect on how to get help and how to stand up for themselves in similar situations.
Who are The Story Project?
A great question! The Story Project is a not-for-profit teacher led organisation that uses the magic of stories to improve wellbeing and literacy. Our award winning programme covers the entire primary PSHE curriculum, from first aid to mental health…all taught through popular children’s stories.
Want to join a growing community of schools doing PSHE differently? Contact our team info@story-project.co.uk
