Let’s De-Bug!!
Have you ever felt annoyed or “Bugged” by another person’s words or actions? Or, have you ever found out that you have “bugged” or annoyed someone else? It’s natural that this will happen every now and then, especially when we consider how much time we all spend together! To help in situations such as this, our students have been introduced to a problem-solving method that can empower them to deal with these minor social frustrations before things escalate to a more serious level…it is called the “De-Bug” system. This includes a series of steps that helps children set social boundaries whenever they feel “bugged” by another student---and, this can also help them change their own behavior if they receive cues that someone is “bugged” by their words or actions. Something really nice about this method is that it can be helpful in any setting (including home and school)…
How to “De-Bug”:
1. Ignore (we talked about using a “stone face” expression, no talking, do not pay attention to the person when s/he is trying to bug you) If the bugging continues….
2. Move Away (if a child is in a spot in which s/he cannot walk away, like a seat in class or on the bus, s/he can just turn slightly away) If the bugging continues….
3. Talk Friendly (using a calm voice, say, “Please stop, I don’t like that”) If the bugging continues…
4. Talk Firmly (using a firm voice, say, “Stop Now, or I will tell an adult”) If the bugging continues…
5. Tell an Adult (tell the adult you’ve tried to “De-Bug”, but that you need help)
*We emphasize that if anyone has been harmed, or is in any kind of danger, or if something is about to be taken or broken, it is important to skip right to Step 5—Get Adult Help! “De-Bug” is solely for use for minor social frustrations.