• Ways To Help Your Child Handle Bullying

     

    ·        Get The Facts
     

    o       Stay calm and be objective

    §        You may not have the whole story

    o       Assure your child that the problem will be addressed

    o       Gather as many details as possible

    §        Where, when, who was involved

    o       Keep records of when your child is bullied.  This will help to show that there is a pattern and that it is not just a one time event.

     

    ·        Communicate With The School
     

    o       Encourage your child to speak to his/her teacher or school counselor verbally or in writing.

    o       If your child is not comfortable speaking up, you can contact your child’s teacher or school counselor

    o       Continue to maintain open communication with school personnel

     

    ·        Encourage Your Child To Use Strategies That They Have Learned
     

    o       Tell the bully to stop

    o       Walk away

    o       Know that it is not your fault

    o       Tell adults at home and at school

    o       Stay with trusted friends

    o       Hang out with people who will let you be you

    o       Don’t be a bully yourself
     
    What To Do If Your Child May Be Bullying Others
     

    o       Talk clearly about behaviors and expectations

    o       Avoid physical punishments

    o       Reduce the amount of TV and video game violence

    o       Determine whether or not your child is being mistreated

    §        Sometimes bullying can be a reaction to hurt, fearful or angry emotions
     
    ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
    www.stopbullyingnow.com                   
    www.stopcyberbullying.org
    www.bullying.org                                
    www.cyberbullying.org                       
    www.opheliaproject.org