With the recent suicides of several bullied kids, and new anti-bullying laws taking effect in some states, parents are understandably concerned about their children being bullied. While there is no way to control what other children say or do to your child, there are ways to help your child deal with them. Read on for tips to help bully-proof your child.
Raise the topic of bullying with your child early on. Talk to her about why bullying is wrong, and instill in her the importance of self-confidence and assertiveness. According to the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, bullying is when one person hurts, scares, or harasses another person on purpose. This can be through punching, shoving, spreading rumors, exclusion, or teasing. Additionally, cyberbullying is when bullies use the Internet, mobile phones, or other type of cyber technology to harass others. This might entail sending mean or threatening texts or emails, posting nasty pictures or messages about others on blogs or websites, or using someone else's name to spread rumors.
Be sure to address the various ways bullying can take form - it's not just about stealing lunch money anymore.
As always, be a good role model. How do you behave towards other people? How do you talk to your spouse and your child when you are angry? Being a part of and witnessing respectful relationships will help her learn how she should expect to be treated.
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