Teasing can be a term of endearment or a form a bullying. Students do not always know the rules of teasing and how it can be hurtful. Let’s take a close look at the difference between mean or hurtful teasing. I like to use the sloth acronym when teaching these teasing rules to students. (Mostly because sloths are fun and I am obsessed with them.)
When teasing, consider the S-L-O-T-H.
S=Sarcastic
L=Language is offensive
O=Only you think it’s funny
T=Topics are sensitive
H=Hurtful intentions
Consider your relationship with the person you are teasing and your true intentions. The intention of teasing should always be to strengthen the bond between you and the other person. It should never be for attention or laughs from others. It should never be to make others feel bad about themselves so that you feel better about yourself.
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I usually begin by showing a powerpoint presentation to students with the basics of teasing. We have a whole group discussion and brainstorm other teasing scenarios.
I like to finish off my teasing unit with a board game. Students can play this on their own in groups of four. I laminate the game board and use real dice instead of the printable die that comes with this game, but it’s up to you how you prefer to use it.
