Choose a small peer moment or invent one. This page is not asking you to prove that everything is fine. It helps you sort the parts before choosing what you want to do.
How to use this page
Use brief notes, symbols, or a conversation. Leave out names and screenshots. Skip the exercise and ask for adult help if the situation includes threats or feels unsafe.
Describe without mind-reading
Write what happened and what you do not know. "They changed the game" describes an event. "They wanted to embarrass me" is a possible interpretation. It could be right or wrong; you do not have to settle it immediately.
Make room for your response
Name a feeling or a need: space, fairness, clarity, company, or help. You can feel hurt even when someone did not intend harm. You can also decide that a behavior is unacceptable without knowing its intention.
Choose a next step
Pick something you can control: ask one question, take a break, make another plan, or involve a trusted adult. Consider where and when it would feel easiest. The other person’s reaction is not something you can guarantee. Have a support option if the response is unkind.
Reflection prompts
Use these questions in conversation, on paper, or in the downloaded PDF. You may adapt or skip a prompt.
What happened, what I am guessing, and what I do not know
My feelings and what matters to me here
My next choice and who can support me
Facilitator notes and adaptation
Keep the focus on agency and support, not persuading the tween to tolerate poor treatment. If a pattern of harm emerges, move from reflection to appropriate adult-led protection.
Sources behind the concepts
These sources inform the concepts in this original resource. They do not validate or endorse this specific page.
Developmental background for middle-childhood friendships and growing independence. Original activities use current, individualized access and safety considerations.
What Kids Can DoStopBullying.gov / U.S. Department of Health and Human Services · Accessed 2026-10-27
Conceptual reference for trusted-adult support and safety when bullying or cyberbullying occurs; these pages are not a bullying response protocol.