Intervene when witnessing bullying

Dear Readers: Please enjoy this “Best Of ” column. Dear Amy: When I was a child, my mother would lose her temper and yell at me in public. At home she threw things and hit me with different objects. She was also an affectionate and enthusiastically involved parent.

I know many strangers witnessed my mother’s behavior. I don’t recall one person ever stepping in to help me. Once I was an adult, neighbors and friends told me that they were aware of what was happening but didn’t think it was their place to intervene.

I am now a mother myself. I have experienced the embarrassment of my children throwing tantrums in public. Once a stranger crossed the street and offered to help. He offered the help directly to my daughter. I did not take offense. He was doing the right thing.

I guess I’m trying to say that it is important to do something.

Trust me, one simple act can make all the difference for years to come.

Speak Up for Children

Dear Speak Up: When people intervene thoughtfully, they are not just giving a parent notice, but they are also demonstrating an important value to the children involved.