Cyberbullying Tips for Parents

By Derek Randel

Be aware - Many kids do not want to report this problem for fear of their parents. They believe the parents will take away their cell phone, computer, or Internet access.

1. Save all the evidence and printouts. If it is not documented then it didn’t happen.

2. Teach your child to ignore the Cyber-bully by not responding.

3. It is time to talk. When it comes to parenting we need to educate our children on numerous issues. We want them to know about smoking, sex, drugs, alcohol, how to be a friend, finances and so much more. This topic is no different; we must address cyberbullying because there is a great chance that they or one of their friends will face it.

4. Notify your ISP, cell Phone Company, school, or police. Most sites and providers prohibit bullying behavior.

5. Become familiar with blocking and monitoring programs. Realize many types of filtering software will not stop Cyberbullying.

6. Keep your computer in a central location with the back of the computer against the wall. Never have an Internet connection in the child’s bedroom.

7. Look for signs of depression, anger, fear, anxiety, becoming withdrawn, or jumpy behavior after your child gets off the computer or cell phone. Also watch to see if he quickly changes pages when you approach the computer or makes it hard for you to see the screen.

8. Teach your child to never leave cell phone, laptops, IPods or other electronics lying around and out of their sight.

9. Check your phone bills for numbers you don’t recognize including long distance #.

10. Never share passwords, PIN numbers, or account IDs with anyone. Your best friend may not be your best friend next week.

He/she may be cyberbullying someone – watch for:
• Late hours on the computer
• He states that everyone is doing it or I was just fooling around.
• His history file is empty.
• Make it clear the use of the Internet is not a right it is a privilege.

Derek Randel is an author, public speaker and coach who has customized programs for corporations, schools, and parent groups for putting the fun back into parenting and protecting your child/student from bullying. He can be reached at www.stoppingschoolviolence.com or 847-853-4308, and Derek@stoppingschoolviolence.com