How to Stop Bullying in Your Child's School

This is an article I personally wish everyone would read and share, because it is so important. Most of us have heard the expression, "Kids can be cruel." When harassment, teasing, verbal abuse, and physical violence in your child's school become out of control, you do have a fundamental option; to stay neutral and turn the other way, or to stand up to the bullies and take positive action to confront the problem.

Things You'll Need

• courage
• persistence
• good character
• assertiveness
• empathy & kindness
• awareness & education
• willingness to become involved

Instructions

1. Remember that every child in your public or private school has the right to an equal education in a safe environment, free from the constant worries and threats of abuse. Race, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, income, appearance, and other personal characteristics should not make a difference in your decision to become involved. No child should be forced to tolerate bullying in his or her school...period.

2. One of the first steps you can take is to listen to the victims of bullying, whether they are your children, your students, or your friends. Find out what is happening and reach out to say, "I care!" Try to understand the social dynamics involved and keep an open mind. Listen to the bullies as well to understand what factors have influenced their actions. If your child is a bully, do whatever you can to stop the behavior.

3. Report bullying to school administrators and ask for their intervention to help stop it. Talk to teachers and other students to ask them for their help in standing up against bullying, but don't expect them to immediately become involved. Many children, parents, and teachers may turn the other way, cowardly choosing to remain neutral, either because of lack of character, or because of their own prejudices and bigotry. Don't stop with just reporting the bullying; become an advocate against bullying and become actively involved in the effort to create awareness and bring about real change.

4. Talk to the school counselors and administrators to see what types of peer support groups, allies, and alliances are functioning within the school. Become involved in their efforts to promote safe schools. Create buddy systems of support for victims of bullying. If your school does not have these types of groups, start one with school and community sponsors. Plan "stop bullying" and "safe school" workshops and rallies. Wear t-shirts and buttons. Get everyone involved to make your school a safer place for all God's children, including your own.

5. Teach your child self defense techniques. Take a martial arts, kickboxing, or attack-defense course class with your child. Encourage your child to stand up to bullies when they have no other choice. Give you child new skills to help them cope with bullying. Build your child's self-esteem by helping them learn to protect themselves. Get your child's friends involved. It is harder to bully a group of friends than it is to bully one child.

6. If problems persist, don't hesitate to involve the police department and news media to stop the criminal activity. Teach your child self defense to protect themselves in the event of a physical attack. If your work makes one student's life easier or prevents a child's suicide; it will all be worth it.