Bullying is a huge topic these days. The focus was on in-person bullying prior to the digital age, but now there is something called cyberbullying. Either way, bullying remains a horrible act that no one should have to endure. Counseling offers support for anyone who is going through this terrible experience in their life. However, a lot of times parents can help with a few simple techniques.
Parents, your child could be bullying someone or be the victim. In any case, you should monitor them on social media, text, emails, cell phones, and other electronic devices. These are dangerous tools in today’s society.
Parents, here are some tips to prevent bullying:
- Awareness: Have your child always think about what they post. Teach them how to be kind to others online. Tell them that sharing anything that could hurt or embarrass anyone is not acceptable or nice. Share a story with them so that they can understand first-hand.
- Password Protection: Tell them to keep their password a secret from other kids. Even children that seem like friends could give their password away or use it in ways that could be harmful. Only allow your parents to have your passwords.
- Visibility: Think about who sees what they will post online. Make sure your kids have privacy settings on at all times. Friends? Friends of friends? Privacy settings provide a way for you to control who sees what on each social media platform.
- Communication: Discuss social media with your children and let them know you want to be kept in the loop. Ask them what they are doing online, and who they are talking to, etc. Inform them that you are always a shoulder for them no matter what is going on in life.
Have these conversations with your children:
- Tell your child if they see someone getting bullied, talk to a parent, teacher, or another trusted adult. Let them know in confidence that you care about them and their friends.
- Educate them about the term bullying and how to be kind to the kid who gets bullied. Have them offer to sit with the victim at lunch or on the bus, talk to them at school, or invite them to do something. Merely hanging out with the child who gets bullied will help them to know they aren’t alone, and not all people are mean.
- Teach them to speak up and say something to a trusted adult; otherwise, it could make the situation worse for everyone. Even the smallest bullying can still be harmful.
Parents, if you do not feel comfortable talking to your child about this, seek professional help. There are many ways to help you and your child cope with this important topic. Whether they are bullying someone or they know someone getting bullied, it is imperative to talk through the interactions thoroughly with someone.
Call today and book your appointment 330-703-6578