09:13 and no daily chat thread? 23rd September

boredofbeingathome

Hi Maz, i think you have put it all very succinctly. I have worked in a village school, and it is amazing how the children fall into line with one child usually doing the string pulling and gaining some kind of power over the other children.
The problem is as you say when the adult teachers also fall into something similar. It seems like the children get a kick out of their little power trips and often the school should try and do something in house but out side school is another problem.
It is fortunate that you are trying to instill confidence in Erin by doing all that you do through other groups..i understand she wants to play with children in the village, but i would also look at making her independent of the village children by inviting others outside of the village in. Make it obvious to the other children that Erin can and will, have a good time without them, and that she doesn't need their approval in order to do so.

In a weird way it is a self perpetuating circle, and the nerve of the children beggars belief at times..but at that age they are self centred and manipulating, and reallly see that they are doing no wrong..not an excuse i know..but that is what i have come to see time and time again in school.
I hope you get it sorted out soon.

Louise i have also seen that happen in the work place, by a caretaker who was also chair of governers, absolute bully and would make working conditions a living hell...It is sad when other adults are such complete cowards that they allow it to happen as well. I walked out of a job once because i refused to be intimidated by people like that..and recieved full pay and a glowing reference, simply because i was quite prepared to whistle blow..and had evidence!