How Parents Can Help

HELP!!!

So, you found out that your child is a victim of cyber bullying.  What are going to do next?  Honestly, give your child a big hug and thank your child for opening up to you.  This is actually the very first step.  I pretty sure that you have been communicating with your child but like what I mentioned in my previous post, it is sometimes hard to detect if your child is being cyber bullied.  Here are some things you can do:

• Block the Bully:  This can easily be done just by changing few things in the setting of any electronic devices.  
• Limit access to technology:  I am pretty sure that asking this maybe too much for your child (especially teen) but this is the only way the curb the temptation of checking text messages, websites, and emails.  Always keep any electronic devices public in the home, yes, even their own personal laptops--especially your child's own personal devices.  
• Know your child's internet/online world:  As a parent, you have the right to check what they posted, what they sent, basically their online history.  If they are on social media, ask that you have to be included as "friend," this way you are aware who they are coming in contact with on line.  Emphasize to them the importance of privacy and why it is such a bad idea to share personal information on-line.  
• Find web resources about cyber bullying:  Many parents maybe lost once they found out that their child is being cyber bullied and it can really be overwhelming and frustrating but take the time to find resources how you can help your child help, cope, and heal.  
• TALK, TALK, TALK to them:  Even if the unfortunate happened already, the importance of keeping an open line of communication with your child is indeed the first line of defense and first line to helping/healing.
• BACK TO BASICS:  Think of family activities.  Perhaps we can go back to the "old school" family activities.   Family needs to reevaluate what it means to be connected again, find basic things such as eating dinners together, camping, game nights, and movie nights are some things we need to reconsider.