kids Helping kids.

"Kids at school call me names ..."

Dear Kids,

Because I wear braces and glasses, rods at school call me names, such as "four eyes" and "barbwire face." I hate it! What can I do to make them stop?

Lauren
Tennessee

This issue's Kids Helping Kids panel is from Mrs. Fullerton's writing class at Saint Richard's School in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Try thinking of what beautiful, straight teeth you'll have! If wearing glasses seems bad, ask your mom about getting contact lenses.

Kaytlyn

My advice is to get those kids to know you better. They will begin to look at you as a friend, not as a target.

Alex

Try to be nice to kids who tease you. Bullies tease to feel superior. They won't feel superior if you're nice to them.

Kathryn

Tell someone you trust what is happening to you. Ignore kids who tease you. Don't tease back because that will egg them on.

Chris

I'm sorry that other kids are annoying you. Tell them that although they're criticizing you, you don't want to hurt them.

Anne

After your braces come off, your teeth will be beautiful. Now there are really cool glass frames. It's important to like yourself.

Kamron

I used to wear braces. Others called me names. When they did, I either ignored the comments or told a teacher.

Nan

Try to be a role model for others. When they see that you are being kind, they will follow your example. Stand up for yourself.

Mark

Sometimes kids tease because they feel bad about themselves. Try to become friends with them because friends don't tease friends.

Whitney

Do not fight back because that will get you in trouble. Maybe if you treat kids who make fun of you with respect, it will help.

Michael

Do you have a problem that is causing you trouble? Need help? Write to "Kids Helping Kids," U*S*Kids, P.O. Box 567, Indianapolis, IN 46206. Be sure to send us your complete address.

All letters become the property of the Children's Better Health Institute. Letters sent for publication are subject to editing.3