Education and Care services urged to say no to bullying on Do It For Dolly Day

This year, more than any other, the impacts of cyberbullying are amplified thanks to more time in front of devices, and children engaging in self isolation as a protection measure from COVID-19. 

 

For those working in early childhood education and care (ECEC) services, particularly those working in outside school hours care settings, where unsupervised device use typically ramps up, the message is clear – saying no to bullying is more important than ever.

 

In 2019, thousands of families, schools and workplaces were awash with blue as Australia stood together against bullying at the inaugural Do It For Dolly Day. Today, everyone can still say “yes” to kindness and “no” to bullying, even in isolation – for the second Do It For Dolly Day.

 

Named in honour of Dolly Everett, who was only 14 when she took her life in January 2018, following relentless and sustained bullying and cyberbullying, Do It For Dolly Day was created by Dolly’s parents, Tick and Kate, who remain determined that no other family should suffer from the same devastation.

 

Tick and Kate Everett established Dolly’s Dream to act as a voice for those who can’t speak for themselves, and to work to prevent other precious young lives being lost. The anti-bullying organisation also works to empower and educate parents, carers and communities to help stop bullying.

 

Today, the family asks for a community show of strength to help drive home the anti-bullying message, asking all Australians to share the Dolly’s Dream message by saying no to bullying and sharing an act of kindness, wearing or decorating in blue and posting a photo on social media using the hashtag #DoItForDollyDay.

 

“We can’t ask people to come together like last year but fostering a sense of community and togetherness is more important than ever,” Kate said. “Kindness is at the core of everything we do.”

 

“Blue was Dolly’s favourite colour and creating a sea of blue reminds people that kindness will not only prevent bullying, but can truly help to save the world,” Tick said.

 

Together we can make Friday 8 May a day of kindness. Here are some suggestions:

 

•       Place something in your window – or even paint your window blue – to mark #DoItForDollyDay
•       Make a music playlist or card for someone you care about
•       Cook a meal for someone 
•       Write a positive review for an online business
•       Start an online fundraiser for Dolly’s Dream.

 

For more information and ideas, see the Dolly’s Dream website, here.