That's why it's crucial to have a conversation about online and digital conduct with your child before he or she begins engaging with others online or through devices.  Expectations of using devices and communications online should be taught and monitored. By teaching students to act responsibly and respectfully, they can avoid cyberbullying and inappropriate content.  Important basics are: 

• Communicate appropriately

• Keep private information private (addresses, passwords, images, secrets)

• Don't lie, steal or cheat online  (don't plagiarize work, don't share school answers, give credit) 

• Be an upstander (Stand up for anyone you see is being bullied) 

• Report misbehaviors you see (do your part to make the internet be a nice place) 

• Follow family and school rules 

• Think before you post text or share. 

• Remember what is said online stays active. 

What to do if a student is being bullied? 

The student may feel compelled to retaliate, but it's preferable to assist the student in defusing the situation, protecting him or herself, and making logical measures to stop the bullying. The initial first steps are contact administration. 

What Teachers should do:

• Reassure the student has an adult who is there to support them. 

• Allow and recommend the student take a break from the computer or device.

• Contact the school to see if there are any ways a parent can block specific people or sites. 

• Empower the student to take specific steps. 

• Collect as many facts or evidence as you can. 

What students should do:

1.  Sign off the computer or device. 

2. Don't respond or retaliate to any bully. 

3. Save and print or screenshot any bullying messages.

4. Tell a trusted adult- this can be a teacher, parent or guardian. 

Cyberbullying on Social Media Sites

Social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat have taken steps to assist individuals who have been bullied. If a kid is bullied on a website or in an app, go to the company's website and seek for a section called "Community Guidelines," "safety advice," or anything similar. It might provide suggestions like blocking the bully or altering the settings.

Cyberbullying over Text Messages 

To report the number, call your mobile phone provider. It's possible that you can block it or alter your phone number. For a price, many carriers offer additional anti-bullying capabilities.

When to contact authorities 

If the communication contains threats, you will need to report the bullying to law enforcement.