10 Tips To Prevent Cyberbullying

1. Be an advocate

Kids need to know that adults can and will provide positive, active and predictable support. And they should never, under any circumstance, bully someone. Make consequences clear.

2. Talk about it

Ask kids what they’re doing online and encourage them to report bullying to you or another trusted adult. Promise to take action and explain what you will do. Reassure them that computer, phone or other privileges won’t be curtailed.

3. Keep the family computer in a central location

If kids play video games, keep Internet-connected game consoles in a family room. However, teenagers have so many ways to access the Internet that putting the computer in a central spot isn’t always effective. With older kids, it’s especially important to have frank discussions.

4. Look for signs of online bullying

For example, take note if kids get upset when they’re online or they show a reluctance to go to school.

5. Encourage your children to make friends

Urge friends to look out for one another. Cyberbullies are less likely to target those they perceive as being well-supported. If a victim has friends who rally around him or her, the bullying usually stops.

6. Don’t respond

Tell kids not to respond to the cyberbully or retaliate; bullies are looking for a reaction. Tell kids not to answer phone calls or reply to (or even read) text messages or comments.

7. Act immediately

Don’t wait to see if the abuse will stop. A child needs to know that you can and will help. If you feel a child is in physical danger, contact local authorities.

8. Accountability

Every effort should be made to find cyberbullies and hold them accountable. If the bully is a fellow student, consider reporting the incident to the school. Report incidents to the online service

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