Do you know the signs of bullying?

It seems barely a day goes by that another horrible story of bullying or cyberbullying doesn’t take hold of the national media. Despite school programs, public and private sector initiatives and even government intervention, bullying continues.

In support of the 10th annual National Bullying Awareness Week (November 12–17), ParentsCanada.com will present information and resources to help you get a handle on this important issue.

In an ideal world, our children would tell us if they were being bullied. But sometimes kids are too ashamed or afraid to approach their parents or another trusted adult. Do you know how to tell if your child is being bullied? Here are a list of behaviours to watch for:

• shifts in habits
• personality change
• loss of interest in social events
• change in phone or Internet use
• reluctance to attend school
• general isolation

If you notice any of these behaviours, open the lines of communication with your child and reassure them that they can come to you with any problem without recrimination. Then, if it turns out they do have a bullying experience to share, listen openly. Comfort and support them and set up a meeting with school administration and/or police if necessary.

Janice Biehn
Editor
ParentsCanada