Parents join the fight against bullies

Bullying is not a new thing but there has been increased attention in the U.S. since the Columbine shootings and if ignored, it can be devastating. There are different kinds of bullying such as hitting and pushing which is physical bullying, name calling or teasing which is verbal bullying, social exclusions or intimidation which is emotional bullying, and phone or computer messages that are insulting or cyber bullying. Verbal bullying is the most common although boys are more likely to experience physical bullying and girls are more likely to experience social isolation.

Most bullying occurs where there is less adult supervision like school buses, cafeterias, hallways, bathrooms, locker rooms and playgrounds. Schools should have policies in place to deal with bullying and parents should listen closely to their children and report bullying. Some children however will not talk about it for fear of repercussions so some warning signs that parents should look for are unexplained cuts and bruising. Your child seems afraid to ride the bus and has lost interest in schoolwork or other activities at school. Your child may complain of headaches or stomach aches or other physical ailments and might have trouble sleeping or may experience bad dreams while sleeping. These signs are all worth exploring. Share your concerns with your child's teacher because they are the ones that can better observe how your child reacts with other children. If that conversation gets you no where, then make an appointment with the school principle or guidance counselor.

If your child is doing the bullying explain that bullying is a serious problem and that it will not be tolerated. Because bullying often stems from unhappiness or insecurity, try to find out if something is bothering your child. You may also have a greater impact if you express disappointment and not anger toward your child but be stern. Teach your child that they should respect all people no matter how different they are.