Cyberbully?

Are you a cyberbully?  Have you been the victim of a cyberbully?  What is a cyberbully, you ask?

Bullying is not new but thanks to the Internet kids are now being bullied at home. Online harassment- or cyberbullying  has become a serious problem. When bullying comes home through the internet or a cell phone, it can leave victims feeling helpless and overwhelmed.

What is Cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying is any harassment that occurs through the internet, cell phones or online gaming. Vicious forum posts, name calling in chat rooms, posting fake profiles on web sites, and mean or cruel email and text messages are all ways of cyberbullying. 

This week, fifth and sixth graders will watch this video from Brain Pop about cyberbullying. You should watch these videos with your children and then take the quizzes that accompany the video.  This video will open the lines of communication between parents and children.  Ask your children if they have been cyberbullied and share your experiences with them. 

The most important thing I imparted with students is that you should never do anything online or on your cell phone that you wouldn't do in person.  I told students that people sitting at home in front of the computer get brave... and stupid.  We need to remember that there is a person on the other side of that screen. 

Other resources:
Stop Cyberbullying
National Crime Stoppers: Cyberbullying
Cyberbully Help