All About Bullying

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

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

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