Bullying
Definition
Bullying is behavior (words or actions) done on purpose to cause fear or harm. Bullying may be repeated behavior. Bullying involves unequal power such as size, age, group size, or popularity.
Tattling vs. Reporting
Students are one of the biggest influences in stopping a bullying situation. But students are often afraid to report what they see. It is important for students to understand the difference between tattling and reporting. Most often, tattling is defined as telling in order to get someone else in trouble. Reporting is defined as telling to protect someone who is being hurt or is in a dangerous situation.
How Families Can Help
Talk to your child about bullying. Help your child understand the definition of bullying.
Explain to your child the difference between tattling and reporting. Encourage your child to report anything they see that appears harmful or dangerous.
If you witness or hear about bullying happening at school, please tell a staff member what you saw/heard. You could tell the teacher, school administrator, school psychologist, school social worker, or school counselor.