Help Your Child Stop Bullies

It’s hard to imagine that anyone would hurt your child. But more than onequarter of children say they are bullied at school. And nearly one-quarter of public schools report that bullying is a daily or weekly problem.

Bullying happens when a group or person picks on someone they think is weaker. It can involve teasing, namecalling, or physical acts such as punching.

Your child might be a victim if he or she:

• Is afraid to go to school or do organized activities with classmates
• Has unexplainable cuts or bruises
• Has damaged or missing clothes, books, or other belongings
• Often cries or seems sad

If you think your child is being bullied, you can help:

• Ask your child to tell you about the bully. Listen carefully. Let your child know it’s not his or her fault.
• Teach ways to deal with bullies. Your child should walk away or find an adult. He or she should not react to the bully. Hitting back likely won’t end the problem, and it could get your child in trouble.
• Encourage your child to make friends at school.
• Talk with the teacher or principal if the bullying doesn’t stop.