Introduce early prevention
Georges Fotinos’ first suggestion to stop school violence: early prevention from kindergarten. “It does not consist in leaving the pupils, but rather in setting up educational activities developing sociability ”, explains the specialist. “In Quebec, for example, from the start of kindergarten to college, schoolchildren follow a program based on social skills. This is a set of learning activities on living together (reading games, mastering emotions, knowing how to recognize emotions in others and oral them) in which the whole class participates. ” This type of program frees the students’ speech and affectivity. It is found to be very effective in preventing violence.
“In France, there have been a few tests in the North. But politically, it does not pay off. The benefits are not visible until 5 or 10 years later. Each minister has 2-3 years to convince. He therefore prefers to set up punching operations, ”adds Georges Fotinos. Unfortunately, “with us, the psychological side of education is put aside. This would also require specific training for teachers.
Modify school rhythms
According to Georges Fotinos, “school planning has a crucial role. When successful, school violence is reduced or even eradicated. This is why it is essential to develop sports and cultural activities. The child can thus exert himself, concentrate on other subjects which allow him to regain his self-confidence. This will change the image he may have of teachers, but also of his comrades. The latter themselves will change their gaze on him. “
Involve parents more
As for families, Georges Fotinos believes that they should participate more in the functioning of the school, by having responsibilities in school life.
And for good reason: it is essential that parents become aware of the rules in place in the school to apply them.