My child is being bullied… What can I do as a parent?  • Back to Bullying The key to success: develop self-esteem. Remain calm  It is normal for parents to feel sad or angry when bullying happens  Try to control your emotions when helping your child  Do not confront the bully's parents, let the school know instead  Listen to your child's feelings  Take what your child says seriously  Tell your child that it is normal to be sad  Alleviate feelings of self blame  Encourage independent problem solving Hold a brainstorming session  Write down all the things he or she can to do to solve the problem  Figure out together the advantages and disadvantage of each solution  Suggest being more assertive Practice through role play  Teach your child to say to the bully: "I don't like it when you (specify the behaviour). I want you to stop"  Promote direct and respectful assertiveness to avoid insulting the bully  Convince your child not to show fear in front of the bully  Teach self-protection  Tell your child to stay away from isolated areas  Encourage sticking to a group of friends  Make your child aware that getting back at the bully is not a good solution: it can even be dangerous  Foster self-esteem Practice posture with your child to give the appearance of confidence:  Keep the back straight and the head high  Relax when walking Avoid staring when looking at others Sign your child up for activities that increase self-confidence (e.g. karate)  Congratulate your child on his or her successes  Take action at school Encourage your child to tell an adult at the school about the bullying  Write down the details of the incident: the date, the time, the location, the people involved, etc.  Find out about the school's policy on bullying  Cooperate with the school to find solutions  To the top