Cyberbullying usually happens when a child uses the Internet, emails, text messages, social media websites, chat rooms, or other digital technology to harass, threaten, or humiliate another child. As Florida has witnessed recently, cyberbullying of children can cause feelings of devastation and may lead to traumatic incidents.
While some parents may feel limited in ways they can protect their child from such taunting, there are steps that every parent can take to end (or prevent) this type of abuse from happening within our community. If you discover your child is being bullied, it is important to teach him or her not to react or retaliate. In addition, you should block the “bully,” and print out and keep evidence in case it is ever needed. We also encourage you to follow these tips:
- Keep your computer in easily viewable places.
- Talk regularly with your child about online activities that he or she is involved in.
- Tell your child that you may review his or her online communications if you think there is reason for concern.
- Consider installing parental control filtering software and/or tracking programs.
- Educate your child about the consequences of inappropriate use of his or her electronics, such as losing internet access or use of their cell phone.
For additional cyberbullying prevention tips for children and teens, visit the following:
National Centre Against Bullying – Top Tips for Kids
bit.ly/bulliesncab
Cyberbullying Research Center – Top Ten Tips for Teens
bit.ly/tentipscyberbullying
Additional resources for parents:
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children – http://Cyberbullying
http://missingkids.org/NetSmartz
Safe Kids – Tips to Stop Cyberbullying
http://safekids.com/tips-to-stop-cyberbullying/