Ellie the Elephant: When Does Teasing Cross the Line?

When a few boys at school start calling Ellie “Ellie the Elephant,” she shrugs it off—until the teasing keeps popping up all day. Back home, she chats with her mum, who listens carefully and helps Ellie think through what teasing really is… and how to stand up for herself with strength and a little sparkle. 

This episode gently explores what to do when a joke isn’t funny anymore, how to draw healthy boundaries, and how to face teasing without losing your cool (or your kindness).

Parent Conversation Guide
Use this episode to open a meaningful chat about teasing, power dynamics, and confident self-expression. Here are some ways to talk it through:

Start with curiosity
 Ask:

• "Has anything like that ever happened to you?"
• "How do you usually feel when someone teases you, even as a ‘joke’?"
• "What do you think Ellie did well?"
  
  

Acknowledge their experience
 You could say:

• "It’s okay to feel annoyed or even hurt when teasing happens."
• "You don’t have to laugh along if it’s not funny to you."
• "You’re allowed to set a boundary, even if it’s small or quiet."
  
  

Model confidence and boundaries
 Try sharing:

• A time when you were teased and how you responded.
• Ways you’ve seen people set kind but strong boundaries.
  
  

Help them prepare; Brainstorm:

• "What are some things you could say if this happens again?"
• "Would you like to practice a line together?"
  
  

If your child tends to do the teasing:

• Gently explore how teasing might feel to the other person.
• Ask: "Have you ever laughed at a joke that might’ve made someone else uncomfortable?"
• Encourage self-awareness, empathy, and ways to be funny without targeting others.

Reinforce their identity

• "You don’t need to get smaller to fit in."
• "You’re strong, thoughtful, and your voice matters."
• "You can be kind and stand up for yourself."

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