Cyberbullying (Being Kind Online)

Hello, I am the feeling of being kind online. I show up whenever you use nice words, invite someone to join your game, or say something friendly in a chat. I am that warm, happy feeling that comes from making the internet a safe and welcoming place for everyone you meet there.

Sometimes, I am forgotten. This happens when someone uses mean words or leaves another person out of an online game on purpose. When I'm not there, it can really hurt someone's feelings. It can make them feel very sad and lonely, almost like they are being pushed away from all the fun, which is not a good feeling at all.

But you can always help bring me back and be a kindness hero. If you see something that isn't nice, you can tell a trusted adult, like a parent or a teacher. You can also choose not to join in when others are being unkind. Sending a nice message to someone who looks sad can make a big difference. When you do these things, you are being an 'upstander'—someone who stands up for what is right.

When you choose to be kind, it helps everyone feel good. The person who receives your kindness feels supported and happy again, knowing that someone cares about them. And you, the person who showed kindness, get to feel proud and happy inside, too. Doing the right thing always feels wonderful and makes your heart feel full.

So let's work together to make the internet a better place. Every single time you are kind online, you help build a safer and happier world for everyone. This good behavior helps you make strong friendships, not just in your online games, but in your school and neighborhood, too. I am always here, growing every time you choose to be a friend.