Bully Magnet update

So he had a great day yesterday. And a great one today.  Thank goodness!!

Details I hadn't shared before - I had initially asked that Sam be switched to the younger group but they had maxed out the counsellor/kid ratio in the younger kid group that day and wouldn't do it. In retrospect I should have pushed -- but I didn't. Then the day after the horrid day, I went and spoke to the camp administrator and she said they could squeeze him in because of the situation -- that they were really working to reduce bullying and they wanted to help if they could.

With relief I told him he could go with his friends and he actually refused!  He begged to be left in the other class because he wanted to prove that he could stay cool.  I told him this was daycamp, he didn't have to prove anything, it was all about fun. But he was adamant.  I have to admit I was proud of him.  He may be a quirky kid but he is very kind, very earnest and wants to generally please. So the camp administrator said they'd keep an eye on him and if there was an issue they'd move him.

But he was so good. Apparently the mean kid continued to be mean and got more "X's on his record.  But Sam stayed cool!  He would just whistle and think to himself, "I am cool."  The camp counsellor said she was amazed at how cool he stayed. The kid even tried the ultimate taunt, "you can't read chapter books, you can only read baby books. " GASP!  Sam said he was angry inside but he asked him to stop and then he just ignored him.  If only he could apply this to the rest of his interactions (like for instance with his sister!!!), he'd be set.  I know it won't be that easy -- but I really think he's made progress this week. 

Comments

[Rose]

Thank you for the update. I'm glad to hear that it has all worked out. Interesting that he decided to stay. I bet the bully will soon set his targets on someone else when he figures out that Sam won't get upset. I think it's neat to have an earnest child, they are very thoughtful, hey?

My oldest is what I call my gentle child, very deep thinker and generally very considerate too.

[Rebekah]

I am SO sorry that Sam has been going through this. Aidan is also a bit quirky ... not in the same way that Sam is, but very goofy sometimes and I am just waiting for the day he comes home and tells me he was teased about it. =P

I am SO impressed with Sam's reaction, though! I know it was super rough initially, but WOW ... what a spectacular show of staying cool! I hope the other kids get a clue and leave him alone. And so impressive that he chose to stay in the group, all on his own. What a kid he is!