4 Ways to Stop a Child From Bullying

Every child experiences teasing from peers or siblings from time to time. But when that teasing turns to taunting, becomes relentless or results in physical violence, it is bullying. Bullying is a serious problem for kids of all ages. Most kids are afraid to tell their parents if they are bullied for fear of retribution from the bully. If your child is being bullied, there are steps you can take to help him/her cope with it and to stop the bully from bullying your child.

4 ways to stop bullying:

1. Listen to your child when he tells you about his experiences with the bully. Ask him questions in order to determine when the bullying happens, how it happens, and if anyone else might have witnessed it. Encourage your child by letting him know that you support him; never criticize him or make him feel responsible in some way for the bullying. Gather as much information about the bully and the bullying as you can so that you will be well-prepared to help make it stop.
2. Contact an official at your child's school. If the bullying happens in a classroom, start with your son's teacher. If the bullying occurs in other areas of the school, call a school counselor, assistant principal or principal. Try to keep your emotional reaction to the bullying out of your conversation with this person. Do not make judgments about the boy who is bullying your son; simply report the bullying and give as many factual details as you can about when and where the bullying takes place.
3. Follow up. Do not assume that one phone call to the school will be sufficient. Continue to talk to your child about the bullying to find out if he has any more encounters with the bully. If the other boy continues to bully your son, call the school again and explain that you expect them to take steps to stop this from happening.
4. If your child's safety seems to be in danger because of the bully, contact the legal authorities. Now, many states have bullying laws put into effect. The police or other authorities might be able to help you and your child deal with the bullying in a legal fashion.

Tips: 
Resist the temptation to contact the bully's parents directly. This could make the situation worse; it is best to let the school contact them instead. Then if you really want to meet with them, a school official might be able to mediate such a meeting. Never encourage your child to fight the bully. This only escalates the severity of the situation.