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Sunday, April 10, 2011

www.StopBullying.gov

http://www.stopbullying.gov/index.html

Summary:

StopBullying.gov is a website providing information from various government agencies on how kids, teens, young adults, parents, educators and others in the community can prevent or stop bullying. Its “News Room” offers news and updates about federal government bullying prevention initiatives. The site also provides additional references and resources, such as other online resources and research papers, which address the problem of bullying and were submitted by educators, publishers, and program developers.

The site’s “Special Topics” page addresses issues and topics related to bullying, such as cyberbullying and LGBT bullying. The sections directed at kids and at teens provide information for those being bullied, those who are bullies, and those who have witnessed bullying.

Review/personal thoughts:

StopBullying.gov features webisodes and games, which is a really awesome way to attract tweens to the site. The “Stop Bullying Now: Take a stand. Lend a hand.” page says, “KB, Josh, Milton and their friends are kids like you who are taking a stand against bullying. Meet the cast, watch the Webisodes, play the games and see how you too can help Stop Bullying Now!” The featured games include a crossword puzzle, “Bully-wood Squares,” a jigsaw puzzle, a matching game, and many more!

There are 23 cast members appearing in the different webisodes. These cast members are students or teachers at “Springdale Middle School,” as well as parents. Raven and Lasa (both age 12) are described as “two of the ‘real friends’ who Melanie dumped to get on Cassandra’s good side.” These characters and webisodes do a great job of relating to the site’s younger audience, and are truly fun to watch!

The page also features a poll asking how often you feel safe at school, which not only makes the site more interactive, but also allows users to see how their peers have voted. Tech-savvy tweens will love the Stop Bullying Now! song that can be downloaded as a ringtone to your mobile phone, or in MP3 format.

Reading level: all ages

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