As a parent, you can help reduce bullying or even stop bullying at your child's school by advocating for a comprehensive approach to bullying prevention. The Olweus Bullying Prevention Program is the most researched and best-known bullying prevention program available today, making it a top choice for many schools.
Find other parents or teachers who share your commitment and desire for positive change. Then, follow these steps to advocate for bullying prevention efforts in your child's school:
1. Document and report bullying incidents reported by your child.
2. Become adept at recognizing bullying and learn how to help your child with bullying.
3. Meet with key administrators. Share concrete examples of bullying and distribute the following fact sheets and resources:
4. Meet with your school's PTA/PTO and invite other supportive parents to the meeting. Distribute fact sheets and other resources as listed above.
5. Brainstorm ways to fund the program through PTA/PTO or members of the community.
6. Comminucate with administrators about how you and other interested parents would support bullying prevention efforts. (Some examples include attending parent training sessions, serving on a committee, hosting parent meetings, raising money, finding community sponsors, and supporting the efforts of teachers.)
7. Say thank you to school administrators and other staff for any and all efforts that are made to address bullying. Encourage them to measure their success with a tool like the Olweus Bullying Questionnaire.
Resources
How can you advocate for bullying prevention in your child's school? (pdf)
