What to do if your child is being bullied?
• Ask your child directly
• Give child option to talk about it or not
• Help them in being specific about the details
• Assure that you are there to listen; not judge
• Believe and validate feelings
• Applaud the reporting of the incident
• Encourage your child to continue to speak with you about any other incidents
• Do not advise your child to physically fight back
• Do not confront the bully or his/her family
• Involve them in social activities outside of school
• Treat the school as an ally/establish a plan with the school

What do to if your child bullies?
• Keep lines of communication open - individuals will minimize the wrong-doing or excuse it
• Do not accept excuses or blame
• Affirm that bullying will not be tolerated
• Teach empathy through modelling; discuss how the victim must feel
• Arrange for an effective non-violent consequence
• Supervise the amount of violent TV/video/computer games that are being watched
• Help child feel successful; praise efforts at pro-social, responsible behaviour
• Be a positive role model
• Co-operate with the school - speak to teachers and administrators about how your child is doing in changing the behaviour
• Seek partnerships if necessary (social worker, school psychologist, outside agencies)

If your child is being bullied or bullying contact your child’s teacher, Principal or Guidance Counsellor if available.