Dealing with Bullying

     You know, as parents, we all want the best for our children. We all want to protect them from harm. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, bad stuff happens to our precious little ones. Unless you have a protective bubble you can keep your child in, they have to learn to deal with bad stuff. Bullying is the worst. Whether it is physical, emotional, or cyber, bullying can leave a lasting mark. What to do? First and foremost, be there for your child. With younger children, be their advocate with the adults who have authority over the bully, With older children, support their coping mechanisms and strategies for taking care of the crisis themselves. Make sure that they know you have their back if need be. Use your active listening, coordinate problem-solving, help them feel empowered in avoiding/handling the situation. Note, physical confrontations of the bully might feel best, especially if you child prevails, but comes with consequences and fears of their becoming the bully to others themselves. As your child's advocate in bullying situations, you are empowering them and providing a very teachable moment.