A child can be bullied in numerous ways, including verbal, physical and a form of electronic bullying called cyberbullying. Examples of verbal bullying include name-calling and teasing. Social bullying is also verbal and includes spreading rumors about someone, ostracizing or intentionally breaking up someone's relationships. Physical abuse includes beating people up, tripping them or any other bullying that involves physical contact. Cyberbullying involves the use of a computer and can include vicious emails and posting negatively about someone on social media websites.
Bullies thrive on the reaction they get. Teach your children not to respond to any type of bullying. This only fuels the fire and can lead to escalation. It is difficult to ignore a situation in which you are being physically bullied, however. In these instances, tell your children to get away from the situation as quickly as possible and go to an adult. Teach your children to avoid physical confrontation beyond what may be necessary to defend themselves. Nonresponse doesn't mean you don't tell. Teach your child to speak to adults. Not telling on the bully will teach the bully there are no consequences to his behavior.
Even if your child is not the child being bullied, you can teach your child to take a stand against bullying by not participating or watching when someone is being bullied. Bullies thrive on the audience. Without an audience, a bully will eventually go away. Teach your child that participating or even watching without participating only encourages a bully. Additionally, teach your child to support the child being bullied. The old adage "strength in numbers" is true. Being with a group of friends can help deter a bully.
Rehearse various bullying situations with your children and test their response to different forms of bullying. If you fear your child may be a bully, address the situation with your child and approach the school to let the principal know you are involved.