They should understand that they can approach:
- Parents
- Teachers
- School counselors
- Coaches
- Administrators
- Another trusted adult
They should also know that if the first adult doesn’t respond appropriately, they can tell another trusted adult.
Sometimes one conversation isn’t enough.
What Schools Can Do
Schools play a central role in preventing bullying.
Effective approaches can include:
- Clear behavioral expectations
- Consistent enforcement of rules
- Adequate supervision
- Accessible reporting systems
- Staff training
- Counseling support
- Communication with families
- Follow-up after incidents
- Protection against retaliation
The response should focus on safety and accountability.
The Importance of Follow-Up
One meeting isn’t necessarily enough.
After a bullying incident is addressed, adults should check in with the student.
Ask:
“How are things going now?”
“Do you feel safe?”
“Has anything changed?”
“Is anything happening that we need to know about?”
A child may initially say everything is fine because they are relieved that adults intervened.
Only later might they reveal that the problem continues.
