Safe, Caring and Restorative Schools

What is bullying?

• Bullying is a relationship problem in which a person or group repeatedly uses power to cause distress to another. It requires relationship solutions.
• Bullying can be verbal, physical or electronic. Sometimes it focuses on racial, ethnic or religious differences, sexual issues or disabilities.
• Children and youth don’t have to be friends with everyone, but everyone has the right to be safe and treated with respect.

Why should I be concerned about bullying?

• Children who bully are learning to use power and aggression to control and distress others. This can lead to a pattern
• they carry forward.
• Children who are repeatedly bullied become increasingly powerless and unable to defend themselves; they get
• trapped in the abusive situation.
• When kids become involved in bullying, adults need to be involved to help them learn from their experiences.

How do I talk with my child about bullying?

• Be proactive. Start a discussion with your child about bullying and raise the topic often, especially in times of transition such as a change of school.
• Listen to what children say about bullying and take it seriously.
• Make it clear that you think bullying is wrong.
• Let children know that you will help solve the problem, whether your child is the victim, the bully or a witness to bullying.

What do I do if my child is a bystander to bullying?

• Encourage children to Choose Action and stand up for kids who are being bullied.
• Let children know there are many ways to provide support for someone who is being bullied and they should choose a method they’re comfortable with.
• Always recognize the courage it takes to report bullying and be sure to let children know that telling is not the same as tattling.

What do I do if my child is being a bully?

• Calm down and think before you take action. Respond caringly and let your child know you’ll help.
• Keep a record of what happened and work with other adults to make a plan. Evaluate your success.