According to statistics provided by the U.S. government, between 1 in 4 and 1 in 3 students say that they have been bullied at school, especially in middle schools. The most common types of bullying are verbal and social, with those who are perceived as “different” more at risk.

Thankfully, there has been a growing awareness surrounding this serious problem. A number of programs have been introduced to empower the youth, including a number that utilize the teachings of martial arts.Here are five important factors in building an anti-bullying program at your school.

1. Create a Safe Environment

Ensuring that your martial arts school is a safe haven for your students is one of the best ways to ensure an effective anti-bullying program. Creating a space in which they can feel comfortable expressing and being themselves will encourage honest and positive behaviors. Be sure to also introduce a list of words and/or behaviors that are and aren’t allowed in the classroom, laying out clear parameters that promote an open and safe environment for your students.

2. Empower Your Students

Martial arts training can help young children develop confidence, which decreases the likelihood of them being bullied. Planning a consistent training schedule for your students can provide structure and consistency as well, helping them build self-worth and occupy their time with something productive. Programming should also empower students to become ambassadors to the community, drastically reducing they likelihood that they would ever bully others.

3. Train Your Staff

In addition to ensuring that your staff is well versed in the martial arts, it’s also important to instruct them on anti-bullying education and have them center their classes on those teachings. Focus on such things as empathy and empower them by asking them to identify bullying and then take the appropriate action when it’s happening.

4. Spread the Word

Developing an anti-bullying program is only effective if people know about it and one of the best ways to spread the word is through social media. Commit your martial arts school to this mission and share educational content regarding anti-bullying, while also distributing information about your programming. Other marketing materials can include pamphlets, newsletters, and mail-outs, along with school demonstrations.

5. Make It Your Focus

Bullying happens year-round and though National Bullying Prevention Month is a great opportunity for you to join in on the movement, anti-bullying efforts should also be seen all throughout the year. Help your community take a stand against bullying.

Anti-bullying programming is hugely important for the well-being of our future generations. To ensure that your programs are reaching your community, it’s important to take advantage of what martial arts management software can offer. Xplor Recreation’s martial arts management software can help you create, track, and measure all of your marketing campaigns in one place, while also helping you take care of time-consuming but necessary marketing tasks so your staff can instead focus on your school’s anti-bullying efforts. Learn more about the management software here.