Mean Girls
I don´t think it´s a very uncommon but I have a bit of a ´Mean Girls´ situation in my group.
I`m already looking around for more information about this phenomenal and as to how to interfere and change the dynamics of this group. The thing is, I teach 2nd grade at an average elementary/ primary school. From what I found out, this type of behavior normally starts later (usually around 4th grade) and most of the programs available are intended for this age-group. I´ve already noticed that some of the girls appear to be rather advanced for their age and that their behavior isn´t typical for 2nd grade.
There´s a Queen Bee (in this case a set of identical twins) and their entourage. There´s a lot of manipulation and subtle bullying going on. Secrets notes, snickering, staring & making faces, blackmail: ´If you play with K. today, you´re no longer my friend!´ and a lot of arguments and cat fights.
I was wondering if anyone has ever dealt with a similar situation and can give me tips on good resources or share success-stories on how to nip this kind of behavior in the butt. I´m particularly interested in how to deal with this regarding younger children as they are less able to reflect on their behavior than elder children are.
Thanks in advance!!
I`m already looking around for more information about this phenomenal and as to how to interfere and change the dynamics of this group. The thing is, I teach 2nd grade at an average elementary/ primary school. From what I found out, this type of behavior normally starts later (usually around 4th grade) and most of the programs available are intended for this age-group. I´ve already noticed that some of the girls appear to be rather advanced for their age and that their behavior isn´t typical for 2nd grade.
There´s a Queen Bee (in this case a set of identical twins) and their entourage. There´s a lot of manipulation and subtle bullying going on. Secrets notes, snickering, staring & making faces, blackmail: ´If you play with K. today, you´re no longer my friend!´ and a lot of arguments and cat fights.
I was wondering if anyone has ever dealt with a similar situation and can give me tips on good resources or share success-stories on how to nip this kind of behavior in the butt. I´m particularly interested in how to deal with this regarding younger children as they are less able to reflect on their behavior than elder children are.
Thanks in advance!!