While bullying is difficult for everyone involved, a good partnership between the school and parents can help address the situation and prevent further bullying. Use the best practices of communication strategies and planning to collaborate with the school to ensure a helpful outcome for your child.

Speak with an adult at school who knows your child well

Immediately contact a teacher or another staff member (such as the principal or an advisor) who is close to your child if there is a report of bullying.

Keep records and written information

Create a timeline for what has happened to your child with all the dates and names of those involved. Note who at the school has been contacted, what actions will be taken, and how follow-up will occur (and when). Document all communication with the school and anyone else involved.

Meet with school staff

Bring your file with you and prepare questions and a list of priorities and concerns to discuss. Try to stay calm and communicate what your child needs as clearly as possible. Ask in advance what the purpose of the meeting will be, who will be there, and define an agenda or discussion items. Determine how follow-up steps will occur and be reported.

Ask who, what, where, when, and follow-up questions

Use constructive phrases such as:

• “Tell me more about…”
• “Please explain…”
• “What do you suggest we do about…?”
• “I think I heard you say… is that correct?”

Create a plan

1. Describe the problem clearly
2. Encourage input from all members of the team
3. Participate in brainstorming as an advocate for your child’s needs
4. Include your child and get their feedback on what they’d like to see happen
5. When all parties agree on the plan, define who is responsible for an action and when it will be done
6. Make sure to put the plan in writing
7. Create a timeline and criteria to evaluate success