2019 Wellness

Page 30 2019 Wellness Expo LINCOLN DAILY NEWS Thursday, February 21, 2019 ● Bullies hide in cyberspace because they do not want to get caught, have “keyboard courage” when they cannot see a victim’s reaction, and like to create pain or be liked by a “mob.” ● Witnesses often scroll through comments but do not stand up for the victim, worry that standing up for victims will make them a target, and may lose interest in social situations to avoid watching it happen. Cyberbullying can happen because the victim does not seem like a real person online and the bullies may not consider their actions, Keith said. She told the students to think and ask whether something is true, helpful, inspiring, necessary or kind before posting, and if not, do not post. Keith showed them a video of her dancing and said if she posted it on youtube, she would need to be prepared for how people may respond. She told the students, what you think is awesome, hilarious, and great, others may not like and may make mean comments about it. You need to realize people may not be nice and you will need to learn how to handle that. As the morning’s activities drew to a close, all the groups came back together for a wrap up discussion and evaluation time. The fifth graders were also able to participate in a photo contest in which the students submitted photos depicting themselves participating in their favorite activity. First, second, and third place winners were announced in the closing session and photos were displayed at Saturday’s Community Wellness Expo. At the Wellness Expo, these students learned many tips for not abusing substances, making good choices, handling emotions, and dealing with cyberbullying. [Story by Angela Reiners and photos by Mitch Douglas]