I think it all depends on your son! My older son ... no way! He couldn't handle it. I mean, he could, but he would simply not take the chance that his friends would tease him. The younger, he could care less what others think. Then again, I might talk him out of it (or talked since he's in high school now) because instead of just taking the insults, he would have taken a swing or two at the teaser! He has grown out of that now, and walks away instead of confronting kids he does not like.

Anyhow, you should wear your along with him and give him the support to do what he'd like to do. Explain that other kids will (not may, but make it clear they will) tease him so he is coached in how to ignore them and remain proud. Grade School is not a place to match wits. I know it is tempting, but our teachers take the use of verbal statements to be as bad as fighting. Better just saying nothing or tattling (which drives this Dad crazy!)

Good luck with what ever you decide is best for your son.