It’s not nice to make fun of others. How many times have you told your kids that?
Well keep telling them. And, take advantage of headline news that drives home your point. Like this report from New York - according to the New York Post, a group of cyber-bullies are facing a 3 million dollar lawsuit for bullying remarks toward a fellow student on Facebook. Not so funny, is it?
Cyberbullying is serious and news stories all over the country are drawing attention to the problem. If you haven’t seen a recent cyberbullying incident make headlines in your community or on television, you can refer to the case of Megan Meier, the teen who took her own life in response to bullying online. While the bullying took place almost three years ago, this case has become one of the most notable examples of how online bullying can turn tragic.
Talking to kids about these news stories is a great way to drive home the message point that cyberbullying is serious and plug your kids into real life examples, instead of getting your own messages tuned out. Aren’t sure where to start? Read more about the Megan Meier case and follow these tips when starting conversations about cyberbullying with your kids.
Prepare yourself for a discussion.
To fully understand the details of the case, visit The New York Times online, which offers a collection of articles that follow the story from Megan’s suicide more than two years ago.
Find more tips.
Talk to kids about how they can follow these tips offered by ConnectSafely.org to help stop cyberbullying.
Download a free booklet.
Nancy Willard, author of Cyber-Safe Kids, Cyber-Savvy Teens, offers a free booklet specifically aimed at teens. Click here.
Take threats seriously.
Victims of bullying can feel desperate and alone. Pass along the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number to anyone you feel might be in danger. 1-800-273-TALK. To visit the Web site, click here.
Comments