WHAT IS BULLYING?
Bullying is harmful, deliberate behaviour intended to hurt the victim physically and/or psychologically. Bullying is ABUSE and as such needs to be taken very seriously. School and parents need to get involved to find solutions.

WHY DO PEOPLE BULLY?
Children who bully enjoy having power and control over other children. They often get positive attention from their peers for bullying. Victims of bullies may learn to become bullies themselves.

WHY IS IT A SERIOUS MATTER?
The emotional scars of bullying can last a lifetime. The bully can/may become involved in criminal behaviour. The victim may experience depression and anxiety throughout his/her life.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE WARNING SIGNS?

Withdrawal and/or apparent depression Low self-esteem Fear of going to school Difficulties with school work Difficulties with friends - not interested in participating in social activities

Temper outbursts Unusual sleeping/eating patterns Unexplained physical injuries Missing or damaged belongings Other changes in behaviour

WHAT DO YOU DO IF YOU SUSPECT BULLYING?
Communication with your child about the problem. Encourage your child to open up at his/her own pace. Reading stories about bullying and/ or sharing your childhood experiences can help children to look at their own situations.

Communication with the school about what is happening. Document bullying incidents and ask teachers what they have noticed. Keep in regular contact with the school and work on solutions together, involving your child as appropriate.

Help your child with Strategies. Teach your child assertiveness skills. Role-play and practice how to respond to bullies.

Encourage your child to seek support from trusted friends and adults and to report incidents that happen at school.

Build your child's self-esteem and self confidence. Provide opportunities for positive socializing, and encourage participation in activities your child enjoys. Help your child to see his/her own strengths.

WHAT IF THINGS ARE NOT IMPROVING?

• Consider seeking counselling for your child - Resources for Help
   
• Take a "team" approach to bullying by working closely with the school and discussing issues with other parents.
   
• Talk to your family doctor for further assessment and support.
   
• Contact local Police Services for information and support. They may be able to intervene.

WHAT CAN THE SCHOOL DO?

Educate staff, children and parents about bullying prevention.

Provide a safe, bully-free environment:

through good supervision
 

having clear rules and consequences for the bullying behaviour
 

creating open communication with parents and children about bullying
 

creating a positive school atmosphere

Intervene in bully-victim problems involving any children in the school community.

WHAT IF MY CHILD IS A BULLY?

• Discourage any verbal or physical aggression toward others.
   
• Set firm rules and consequences for bullying behaviour at home, school or in the community.
   
• Model respect and non-judgmental attitude towards other people.
   
• Seek counselling. Behaviour and attitudes can be hard to change.

HOW TO DEAL WITH BULLIES

Make friends who will stand by you, and play in groups.   Talk to a friend or adult you trust for ideas and support.   When at school stay in the sight of an adult.   Practice responses to bullies at home.

Practice showing confidence: firm voice, eye contact, stand up tall.   Have a plan for dealing with bullies (e.g. Walk away, report).   Try to stay calm when faced with a bully, and try not to show him/her that you are afraid.