Visions of a muscular boy stealing a weaker child's lunch money fail to capture the true scope of bullying among kids. Bullying encompasses physical, verbal and psychological tormenting that is intentionally harmful. The Internet makes bullying even easier, allowing bullies to harass victims on websites, social networking sites, through email and on message boards and chat rooms. Victims of bullying may experience fear, anxiety, poor self-esteem and depression, according to the Mayo Clinic. Parents play a vital role in ending bullying.
Step 1
Set a positive example for your child by treating all people with respect. Avoid interacting with anyone in a demeaning or hurtful manner. Talk with your children about bullying, even if it isn't currently a problem.
Step 2
Take an active role in your child's life. The Mayo Clinic suggests encouraging your child to participate in sports, art and other programs that help boost self-esteem. Children with high self-esteem are less susceptible to bullying and are less likely to be the bully.
Step 3
Talk to your child on a daily basis about things going on in his life. Taking time to talk with him shows that you care about his life. He may be more likely to tell you about being bullied if you have an open line of communication.
Step 4
Watch for signs of bullying in your children. Many children who are bullied never tell an adult, even their own parents, according to the website Education.com. Signs include unexplained injuries, decreased performance in school, headaches or other physical symptoms, difficulty sleeping, few friends and not wanting to go to school, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Step 5
Listen to your child with compassion and support if he reveals that he is being bullied. Speak with the counselor, teacher or other school officials to work together on resolving the situation.
Step 6
Encourage the school to include anti-bullying initiatives with students of all ages. Involving the school, parents, students and community as a whole creates a united front against bullying. Help organize anti-bullying events within the community to raise awareness about the problem.
Step 7
Teach your child what to do if he witnesses someone else being bullied. Encourage him to tell the bully to stop or get help from an adult. Kids should also avoid joining in, laughing or simply watching when another child is victimized by a bully. Practice role playing a bullying situation with your child so he has a chance to go through the motions.
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