Bullying. Most (if not all) of us have experienced it. For many, it was mild. We were picked on at the playground for our knock-off Chuck Taylors or our less-than-hip haircut (I may or may not be drawing from personal experience here). For some of us, it was moderate. The taunting might have spilled over into class or the bus ride home. It might have even lasted for several awkward years. For a few of us, it was much worse than just name-calling. Those unlucky few may have experienced physical violence, extreme ostracization, or parent/teacher intervention.

Regardless of how severe the bullying was, it almost always came to an end when we walked through the front door. We were home. We were safe, shielded from the kids who terrorized us and surrounded by the people who loved us. But imagine if it never stopped. What if the taunts kept coming via texts, Facebook messages, or emails long after the school day had ended?

These days, kids are constantly connected. Along with the amazing online resources that help them learn and keep them entertained, there are endless social media platforms and apps that keep them in nearly constant communication with their peers. Unfortunately for kids who are being bullied, this means they actually may not be able to escape it. As a result, the same “harmless” taunting parents of earlier generations viewed as a rite of passage has become a clear threat to the mental and physical well-being of children today.

Cyberbullying, like any other form of bullying, is most commonly thought of as blatant forms of abuse like spreading rumors, name-calling, and threats of physical violence. It can also include, however, more subtle forms of discrimination like microagressions or exclusion. Regardless of the method, the results can be devastating. Kids who report being victims of cyberbullying are more likely to experience low self esteem, depression, and even thoughts of suicide.

Because of this threat, parents are faced with an entirely new challenge. How do you give kids the space they need to learn life’s most important lessons while ensuring they’re not in danger?

Experts say prevention is key. By framing the internet as a place full of real people, you can help kids understand the importance of manners, respect, and kindness online and offline. Simply having an open conversation about what cyberbullying is and what kids should do if they see it happening can help prevent your child from becoming involved… as either a victim or a perpetrator. Be sure to set a positive example for your children to mimic when it comes to appropriate internet usage.

Some parents choose to limit their kids’ access to unsupervised technology and/or closely monitor their internet use. While this strategy can help parents keep better track of their children, it has been known to backfire. Some children feel intimidated and will go to extremes to hide their online behavior.

No matter how you choose to address the topic of cyberbullying, there is no guarantee it won’t happen to your child. Furthermore, the majority of kids won’t tell an adult if they’re being harassed. So, if you ever suspect your child is being bullied, ask her about it right away. This is one life lesson you don’t want her to learn the hard way.

To learn more about Laura Pearson and Edutude visit the Featured Authors page.

For additional resources visit: https://www.vpnmentor.com/blog/the-ultimate-parent-guide-for-child-internet/

Other resources: https://www.safetydetectives.com/blog/parents-guide-for-safe-youtube-and-internet-streaming-for-kids/ and Child Internet Safety Guide - nstlaw.com/child-safety/internet/