With the growing concern over bullying in South African schools, Mari Payne of Sesame Workshop South Africa is urging a shift in focus, one that begins far before children enter the classroom.
This follows the controversial incident that happened at Milnerton High School in the assault of a 16-year-old grade 10 pupil by several other boys, in a video that subsequently went viral.
Payne explains that bullying doesn’t necessarily start in high‑school playgrounds or primary school corridors; it begins much earlier underscoring how experiences of love, safety, and responsive care can shape children’s brains to choose empathy over aggression.
What inspired the focus on bullying prevention from an early childhood perspective?
Bullying prevention starts early because 90% of brain development occurs before age five, shaping emotional patterns and social behaviours. Research and ECD teachers' reports confirm that bullying behaviours like aggression and exclusion appear in preschool, disrupting learning and causing long-term harm. Early intervention builds empathy and resilience before harmful patterns set in.
Why do you believe bullying begins much earlier than most people think?
Studies show that peer victimisation and aggression occur as early as age four. Early childhood is a critical window for social-emotional learning; without guidance, negative behaviours escalate. Underreporting and lack of parental involvement compound the problem.
How does your work with Sesame Workshop South Africa approach issues like empathy, kindness, and inclusion among children?
Through play-based learning, inclusive media content, and carer engagement, Sesame Workshop integrates empathy and kindness into daily routines. Initiatives like Takalani Sesame use relatable characters and storytelling to teach cooperation, respect, and gender equity while partnering with schools and parents for scale.
In what ways can parents or carers unknowingly shape a child’s response to conflict through daily interactions?
Carers model conflict resolution. Harsh discipline or neglect normalises aggression, while calm problem-solving and emotional coaching teach empathy and cooperation. Even tone of voice and consistency in routines influence coping strategies.
What cultural or societal changes do you hope to see in how South Africa addresses bullying and empathy education?
Shift from punitive norms to nurturing, gender-equitable parenting and school cultures. Embed empathy education in ECD curricula, strengthen carer-school partnerships, and dismantle stereotypes that perpetuate violence.
How should schools and parents work together to create safer learning environments?
Adopt National School Safety Framework principles: proactive communication, joint monitoring, and positive discipline. Parents should model respect, engage in socio-emotional learning activities, and collaborate with educators to address early signs of bullying.
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
Saturday Star
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