bullying

Some possible signs that your child is being bullied:

• Child's clothes or books are torn or dirty for no apparent reason
• Child seems to have fewer friends
• Child seems afraid or unwilling to go to school
• Child often has headaches, stomachaches or little appetite
• Child's grades decrease
• Child shows signs of depression
• Child displays mood swings (including sudden outbursts)
• Child describes being ''picked on''

Some warning signs that your child might be a bully:

• Child has a marked need to dominate or control others
• Child has an aggressive, mean or spiteful side
• Child has little empathy for others and likes to push around or tease other children

Keep in mind that victims often turn around and bully someone weaker (physically or emotionally) than they are.
Don't assume that if bullying is happening, the school staff will intervene or even know about it. Bullies are usually very good at hiding their bullying, and children are often scared to ''tell'' on someone.

Common Sense Rules for Parents that Can Help Prevent Bullying

• Let your child know he or she is important; notice a job well done
• Laugh with your child and not at your child; children are proud and can feel deeply hurt when you make fun of them. Humor is a positive tool that can add joy to everyone's lives.
• Have clear rules and expectations; don't give in to avoid conflict.
• Children need the limits, even if they push again and again.
• Stick to your word and keep your promises as much as possible; children need to know they can rely on you.
• Don't scare your child unnecessarily. Sometimes we are harsher than usual with our children when we think they are in danger, but children don't need to be scared into obedience.
• Remember you are a role model for your child. Do you yell at cars while driving, gossip about neighbors, or hit your children? No one is perfect and as parents, we are always doing the best we can.

Keep in mind though that children learn much of their behavior from us.