Cyberbullying Education

If you’re an active user on social media, chances are you’ve come across cyberbullying. It’s on the rise as it’s easier for someone to hide behind a computer screen and attack. Did you know that October is National Cyberbullying Prevention and Awareness Month?

Make this the month you sit down with your child to discuss cyberbullying and how to prevent becoming one.

The good old logic of “think before you hit send” is the first thing you should talk about. Be mindful of what you’re sharing. Before you hit send, ask yourself if this is positive or negative – how will it impact myself or others?

Unforntantly on today’s worldwide web, it seems that empathy lacks more than compassion. Teach your child that if they see something that is cyberbullying, they can come to you at any time to talk to you about it.

Maybe they saw an ugly comment on someone’s post? Speak to them about how it made them feel. Teach them that it’s okay to stand up for a friend by saying “stop” or “hey, that’s not cool!” It’s often better if they bring it to your attention first though.

If they wrote something negative tell them to delete it. Apologize to that person and reach out to them personally. We all make mistakes, talk to them about how they would feel if someone did that to them.

If your child has been the victim of cyberbullying, be sure to save the evidence. Don’t let them respond or retaliate online, take it offline. If the bully doesn’t back down, you may have to reach out to the school or law enforcement, that’s why it’s important to save the evidence.

Cyberbullying has risen over the last 15 years; it has become harder to be a child and live your life with it. By talking to your child about it, you can hopefully have them come to you if they’re ever being bullied or avoid them becoming a bully themselves.