Bullying

Bullying is harmful and unwanted behaviour. Bullying is on purpose and is repeated. A child who bullies others uses their power to hurt, scare, exclude or insult others. It is never okay.

Bullying can happen in private, online or in front of others. It can also happen between groups of people.

Types of bullying

Bullying can be:

• Physical, such as hitting, shoving, tripping or any use of force.
• Emotional, such as hurtful comments, name calling or teasing.
• Social, such as spreading rumours, giving the silent treatment or leaving someone out.
• Discriminatory, such as harassment because of sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender identity, religion or anything else seen as making them different.
• Cyber, such as harassment using social media, textension, email or websites.

Behaviour to watch for:

What to do if someone is bullying your child

If your child tells you someone is bullying them, listen to them. Comfort and support them. Tell your child that you are proud of them for talking to you about feeling bullied.

If the bullying does not stop, the child may learn that misusing power is acceptable.

You can get more information from the Ontario Ministry of Education's guide for parents.

What to do if your child is bullying others

Children who bully others may see the misuse of power in their own relationships or in those close to them. Children who bully need to know that their actions are not okay.

Talking with your child will help them see why they need to change their behaviour. Try talking to your child's school for support. They can help change your child's behaviour.

Bullying and school

Schools are responsible for keeping students safe. They have information to address bullying. To find out who you can contact, visit:

• Durham District School Board
• Durham Catholic District School Board
• Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board
• Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board