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This is an article as it appeared in our school newsletter. We answered your questions so that all of our students and their parents could read our answers.

Dear Peer Helpers, Me and my Mom are fighting. What should I do?
Signed, An Unpopular Student

Answer:

Dear Student, We had a few questions that we needed to think about. You did not say what you were fighting about with your Mom. You did not say if your were hitting each other or arguing. We will talk about this problem as though you were arguing. Maybe you should stay around your mom more to see what her point of view is so that you can understand what she wants. Some things to do with your mother that are helpful are to go along to the grocery store, help out around the house, follow directions and obey all your Mom's rules. We may not always like to hear this, but the parent is always in charge. If you do not listen now, you may regret it later. Maybe your Mom is just trying to protect you. Mothers can be like that. Write back if you have further questions about this.
Sincerely,

The Hamilton Peer Helpers

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Dear Peer Helpers,
There is this girl who bothers me all the time. I have used the Five-Step Plan at least ten times and it has not worked. I am tired of ignoring her and walking away from her. Please tell me something else to do because the Five-Step Plan is not working.
Signed,
An Unpopular Student

Answer:

Dear Student,

We suggest that you continue to do the Five-Step Plan. Are you doing the five steps correctly? Or are you upset because things are not going your way? We suggest that you read the five steps again (below) and memorize and practice them. Get someone to help you practice the "Five-Step Plan" or contact a Peer Helper to assist you. An adult at school can help you too, if you ask them.
Sincerely
The Peer Helpers

THE FIVE-STEP PLAN

1. IGNORE
2. TURN OR WALK AWAY
3. TALK FRIENDLY
4. TALK FIRMLY
5. GET ADULT HELP


If you must ask an adult, tell them everything that you tried. The adult will help you to brainstorm new ideas to try if it happens again. Most of the time, when students believe the steps do not work, it is because they are skipping steps or losing patience. Try not to decide how your situation will turn out beforehand. You might make the mistake of quitting too soon.

GOOD LUCK

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