This is a part of the podcast series from the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center on Returning to School After Burn Injury. Cindy Rutter discusses how teachers can help children learn to stand up to bullying after burn injury. 

I think there's a difference in a child just being asked a question and being bullied. And I think as much as possible for the teacher or the staff to allow the child the opportunity to respond on their own. If he's struggling or she's struggling, then certainly step in. But I like to say, and children are so resilient, it, it's very impressive to me. But I think it is so important to allow them that opportunity to stand up for themselves. But at the same time, if they're being bullied, then somebody needs to step in. I also think that is just imperative to mental wellbeing. You know, you can't just be beat down constantly. So I think it's important. And, and kids are bullies even when there's nothing wrong with another child. So then when you add a burn injury, there's a lot more that can go on potentially.

I think the, the script that I would offer teachers just basically, again, well, to stop the bullying number one, but, you know, to educate that child. Doesn't have to necessarily be right when that's going on, but to make sure that child is educated to what the individual has gone through. You know, people see the scars, but they have no idea what somebody has gone through to get to that point and to just teach them, you know. I dunno, I use the word empathy to teach 'em so that they can have empathy towards the burn survivor. 

Visit https://msktc.org/burn and get the answers you need from experts who conduct innovative and high-quality research, provide patient care, and work to improve the health and overall quality of life for people with burn injury. That’s https://msktc.org/burn.