by Irene van der Zande, Kidpower Founder and Executive Director | Feb 27, 2012
The Ohio School Shooting in Chardon has left one student kiled and four others injured — and a community in trauma. As parents, grandparents, teachers, and other caring adults, we want to know how to empower our children rather than leaving them feeling that stopping violence is hopeless and that they are helpless.
by Irene van der Zande, Kidpower Founder and Executive Director | Feb 16, 2012
This is a follow-up to “My Son’s Best Friends Are Bullying Him” that describes the problem the interventions below addressed and has recommendations about how to take action and practice solutions.
by Irene van der Zande, Kidpower Founder and Executive Director | Feb 12, 2012
The Walmart kidnapping video is a compelling reminder to parents about that an abduction attempt can take place in seconds even when you are close by. When a man attempted to kidnap seven-year-old Brittany in Walmart, her courage, fighting spirit, and instant reaction might well have saved her life, Lessons are to keep your security awareness in familiar places, teach children Stranger Safety skills, and prepare children to protect themselves from an attack.
by Irene van der Zande, Kidpower Founder and Executive Director | Feb 10, 2012
After providing twenty-two years of grassroots education through Kidpower, we’ve seen again and again how a few simple skills can stop most attempts of bullying, violence, and abuse. We are proud that we have shared Kidpower skills with over two million people worldwide. When we say that “Kidpower is for everyone,” we mean it! We […]
by Irene van der Zande, Kidpower Founder and Executive Director | Feb 8, 2012
News stories about years of alleged shocking child abuse by two teachers in LA’s Miramonte School provide a sad example of how the procedures in place failed to protect kids. As the school community goes through great trauma in trying to re-establish trust with the parents and to prevent harm to any more students, this article explores what might have helped to make a difference.