The need to address bullying in schools is significant. However, schools cannot address the issue alone. Preventing bullying requires that parents get involved, too. Here are 10 ways you can help prevent bullying at your child’s school. Although research suggests that parents are often the last to know when their child is being bullied or has bullied someone else, you can break that trend by talking with your kids every day about their social lives. To encourage your child to chat, ask open-ended questions like:
Who did you have lunch with today?What did you do at recess?What happened on the bus ride/walk home from school?
Avoiding school or activitiesChange in eating habitsChange in hygieneDropping gradesHeadaches, stomachaches, and other illnessesMood and personality changes
Cyberbullying is also a big issue for kids. It’s also never too early to teach your children about responsible online behavior. It’s also important to teach kids how and when to report bullying when they witness it, and help them understand why they do not want to be a bystander. It can also be useful to document all bullying incidents. This will help you be prepared if the situation escalates and law enforcement or other outside sources need to become involved. Remember, bullying is not a normal part of childhood. Bullying affects everyone. As a parent, you have the power to do something about it. You can empower your child to stand up to bullies and feel that they can let an adult know if they are being bullied and help them understand what constitutes bullying behavior. You can also set a good example by getting involved with your child’s school and raising awareness and funds to help put bullying prevention measures in place.
