Cy·ber·bul·ly·ing – noun: the electronic posting of mean-spirited messages about a person (as a student) often done anonymously (source: Merriam-Webster Dictionary)
Does a week go by when we don’t hear about these mean-spirited, online messages? As many of you are aware, last month a sweet-faced girl named Rebecca Ann Sedwick committed suicide at just 12 years of age after a year of being terrorized – both physically and via social media – by a ring of 15 girls. We at Wear the Cape are very sad to learn of this horrible tragedy and are praying for the strength of Rebecca’s loved ones.
The rise of social media makes our mission – restoring the power of kindness and good character – all that much more important. I talked with my dear friend in Boston who is both a 7th grade teacher and a mother of two teens, and she assisted me in pulling together what we see as important, simple tips for all parents. Let’s join together to keep our kids safe from the dangers of the cyber world.
10 Tips to Press Delete on Cyberbullying
1. Keep the home computer in the family room with the screen visible. This way there is no secrecy, and online activities can be monitored. Rethink kids having computers in their own bedrooms.
2. Cellphones should be left charging at night in a “common area.” Children should not go to bed at night with their phones in their possession.
3. Approve all phone “app” purchases and understand their purpose. Many times, weeks or months of bullying take place through these sites before parents are aware of the activity.
4. Parents should check out the age requirements outlined by social media sites (often kids join sites “illegally”, and the content is not age appropriate).
5. Insist on knowing your child’s passwords. It’s for their safety. No exceptions.
6. If your child is being cyberbullied, tell him/her NOT to respond to any negative posts – even if what is being said is mean or untrue. The bully is trying to get a reaction. Don’t stoop to their level.
7. Tell your child to ask for help if he or she is ever feeling threatened. Victims of bullying should always seek out advice from a parent, teacher, coach, counselor, or other trusted adult.
8. Report bullying. Make the school aware of what’s going on, even if it is not school-related. Teachers and coaches can help keep an eye on the situation. The websites and apps serving as platforms for the harassment should be contacted, as well. Involve the authorities as appropriate – there may need to be an investigation.
9. Block the bully (unless there is an investigation with authorities)! Stop communication with a bully as much as possible. Delete them from your “friends” lists and contacts. Block them from sending you emails and/or messages on social media.
10. Never blame yourself. This is the bully’s issue, not the victim’s. Encourage your child and surround them with people who love, support and lift them up. Tell them to be proud of who they are.
Wear the Cape’s BETTER THAN THAT™ bracelets serve as a reminder to you and your kids to do the right thing and not stoop to the level of bullies. For one more week, our BETTER THAN THAT™ bracelets are available at a discount in celebration of anti-bullying month for $4.95 (regular price will be $5.95 starting November 1st)!
Keep in mind: Bullies try to hurt others, because they’re hurting inside themselves.
