What You Can Do to Help Eliminate Bullying

Whether or not you suspect bullying behavior is occurring at your child's school, you may want to consider getting involved in establishing an anti-bullying prevention plan at the school if the school does not already have such a policy. You also may want to consider talking with school officials about the school's current policy for responding to bullying behavior.

Many states have policies in place that may explain your children's rights with regard to bullying behaviors and what should be done when those behaviors occur in schools. Visit www.bullypolice.org or call your state department of education for more information about your state's policy against bullying. It is important to teach your child that bullying of any sort is not acceptable behavior even if you do not believe that your child is in danger of being victimized or committing such acts. Encourage your child to report all incidents of bullying to you or school officials.

Getting involved in your child's life both inside and outside of school is important, both for your own sake and for your child's. You will see how your child interacts with other children and will be able to take steps if you see any potentially troublesome behaviors that are taking place. Talking with your child about how to engage in non-violent interactions and how to respond to those who bully will prepare your child for such situations in school and elsewhere.

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