Parent Tips on Bullying
If you suspect your child is being bullied, it is important to respond in a positive and accepting manner. Let your child know it is not his or her fault, and that they did the right thing by telling you. Here are some suggestions:

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Ask your child what he/she thinks should be done. What has been tried?  Did it work?

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Seek help from your child's teacher or the school guidance counselor.

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Don't encourage your child to fight back. Instead, suggest that he/she try walking away to avoid the bully, or that they seek help from a  teacher, coach, or other adult.

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Help your child practice what to say to the bully so they can be prepared.

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Help your child practice being assertive. The simple act of insisting that the bully leave him alone may have a surprising effect. Explain to your child that the bully's goal is to try to
get a response.

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Encourage your child to be with friends as often as possible. Bullies are less likely to pick on a child in a group.

~The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

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Revised: 02/27/08