Much focus has been placed recently, whilst we live through a global pandemic, on the effect of this time on children’s normal development and mental health.

The school years are those years where there can be a range of issues that can destabilise a child, especially emotionally and socially.

Evelyn M. Field is an international authority on dealing with school and workplace bullying and she has treated, published, lectured, and provided professional training for targets of school and workplace bullying, both locally and internationally. With almost 45 years experience as a psychologist, school counsellor, and grandmother, this month Evelyn will share her valuable insights about managing bullying in a unique new children’s book called, Harry the Bully Blocker: A sad poem with a happy ending.

Inspired by her own dog, the character Harry is a shy, bullied little dog. In a dream, he meets some friendly animals who teach him basic bully-blocking skills. Mia the meerkat tells him the best ways to respond to bullying; Ollie the owl emphasises eye contact; Gerry the giraffe explains the importance of a good stance; and so on. Harry puts these new skills into practice: they work immediately, and his life is transformed. In learning how to block bullies and make new friends, Harry sheds his fear, gains respect, and enjoys being with his friends.

The book aims to empower 8+-year-old children and anyone else who feels like a bullied child, to learn how to block bullies. It is based on a therapy model that Evelyn developed to train psychologists and bullied children on how to manage their basic survival instinct. It is effective and empowering: even young children understand the concept of keeping their power or giving it away and making the bully happy. Harry’s story is written in the form of a poem – in rhyming four-line stanzas – to help children remember the words, which are meaningful and therapeutic. The audiobook is designed for those who want to listen and includes a fusion of eastern and western music to appeal to a global audience.

Whether your child is just starting out in school or already a few years in – this book is a must-read for all parents. Evelyn draws on her years of experience as well as the Bully Blocking Treatment Model which is based upon the fight/flight freeze survival instinct used by animals.

The poem in the book shows children that they can have greater control over their feelings and relationships and learn better ways of managing themselves and others. It teaches children that if you show your fear or anger, you make a bully happy. Use your survival instinct to block bullies!

Evelyn says, “School days are an exciting time in a child’s life and are full of wonder and learning. This book is an opportunity for families to learn about how to support their children during these years and empower them to manage bullying. As a former school counsellor and grandmother, myself, I am excited to share the wonderful story of my dear Papillion, Harry who was such a help to many children who came to my practice over the years. The journey through school brings with it many opportunities and challenges for families along the way. This book gives children back their power and provides helpful strategies in dealing with these often traumatic situations that can affect them long term developmentally.”