How to prevent Cyberbullying

Parents need to be informed about technology and aware of cyberbullying. Our teens are technology savvy.

Ask for your teen’s passwords, but tell them you’ll only use them in case of emergency. Remind your teen not to share their passwords with others.

Installing parental control filtering software or monitoring programs are one option for monitoring your child’s online behavior, but do not rely solely on these tools. Your teen can use a friend’s cell phone, tablet or computer.

Establish with your teen safe ways to use technology. Discuss with your teen about how to be smart about what they post. Tell them not to share anything that could hurt or embarrass themselves or others. Once something is posted it cannot be deleted. Your son or daughter cannot control if someone else will forward their post.

Talk with your son or daughter about being safe when on-line and not providing personal information. Tell them to never meet in person someone they met on line.

Encourage your teen to tell you immediately if they, or someone they know, is being cyberbullied. Explain that you will not take away their computers or cell phones if they confide in you about a problem they or a friend are having.

Reference: http://www.stopbullying.gov