TEASERS ARE MAKING CLASS HARD

Dear Jellybean,

These are these two boys and one girl in my class who keep teasing me. They make fun of me, they embarrass me they distract me from learning and today I heard one of them say that I'm a bucktooth and one said I was ugly. They make me so mad! I think the teacher is too busy to notice but if I do tell her she would just tell them to don't do it again and they still do! What can I do so I can peacefully learn in class without being distracted or made fun of?
-Angry & confused

Dear Angry & confused,

If you overhear someone saying something about you, and it wasn't really meant for you to hear, you can't really say or do much, since it was part of a private conversation. You just have to steel yourself against it, know that everyone has their own opinion, and try hard not to let it affect the way you feel about yourself.

But if these kids are saying this stuff loudly, for you and other people to hear, then action has to be taken. Mean kids usually don't just stop being mean, unless someone gives them a reason to stop. I think you should try talking to the teacher first, because it's her job to keep peace and order in the classroom. Talk to her privately before or after class, and explain what's been going on, and that it's making it impossible for you to focus on learning. You should also tell your parents what is happening, so they can support you, and talk to the teacher if she's not able to bring things under control.

You can take a hand in stopping these bullies too, by talking back to them. These kids sound like brats, who just mouth off because they think they can get away with it. Show them you won't put up with it anymore, by standing up to them! You can tell them, "Don't call me names," or simply say, "Grow up, only babies call other people names." You could even say, "I think I'm amazing, and I don't care what you think." You've got to show them that you love yourself and you won't stand for being put down.