- Make it clear to your child that you take bullying seriously and that you will not tolerate this behavior.
- Develop clear and consistent rules within your family for your children’s behavior.
- Praise and reinforce your children for following rules and use non-physical, non-hostile consequences for rule violations
- Spend more time with your child and carefully supervise and monitor his or her activities. Find out who your child’s friends are, and how and where they spend free time.
- Build on your child’s talents by encouraging him or her to get involved in pro-social activities (such as clubs, music lessons, non-violent sports).
- Share your concerns with your child’s teacher, counselor, and/or principal. Work together to send clear messages to your child that the bullying must stop.
- If you and/or your child need additional help, talk with a school counselor and/or mental health professional.
If you find that your child is bullying others, you will need become involved and actively stop this behavior. Here are seven steps you can take:
Parenting Classes
Building Self-Esteem in TeensMore Free Online Parenting Classes
Explore Teens
Must Reads
About.com Special Features
Make Meals Easy
An easy way to put delicious meals together.Build Your Business
Get tips on starting up and staying competitive.Love Your Living Space
Achieve your dream home with advice from the pros.Financial Planning
Stay on top with our smart financial tips.
©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.
All rights reserved.