Adapted from Addressing and Preventing Classroom Bullying by Barbara Coloroso

When Sarah noticed her 12-year-old son dreading school every morning, she knew something was wrong. After some gentle conversations, he admitted he was being bullied on the playground and felt like no one would listen. Sarah followed a clear plan: she reported the bullying, documented everything, scheduled a meeting with the school, and worked with staff to create a safety plan. Within weeks, the bullying stopped, and her son started regaining his confidence. He was empowered to come up with a plan going forward with his mom.

Bullying often happens when adults at school aren’t watching. This means you, as a parent or caregiver, might be the first to know what’s really going on with your child. You play a critical role in making sure the bullying stops and that your child feels safe and supported.

Reporting bullying can feel overwhelming, but having a clear plan can make all the difference. Here are six steps to take action effectively:

1.  Schedule a Meeting:
Request a meeting that includes you, your child, and the appropriate school personnel. This may be a teacher, counselor, assistant principal, or principal. If you meet with a school employee and don’t feel like they are helping your child, request a meeting with a superior of that employee.

2.  Bring the Facts
Come prepared with written details:

• Dates, times and locations of incidents
• Names of those involved
• A clear description of what happened
• The impact on your child (emotional, academic, physical)
• Steps your child has already taken to stop the bullying

3.  Create a Safety Plan Together
Work collaboratively with your child and the school staff to develop a plan that covers:

• What your child needs to feel safe
• Strategies for responding to future bullying
• Trusted adults your child can go to for immediate help

4.  Ask About Accountability
Find out what actions will be taken with the student who bullied and how the school will involve that child’s parents.

5.  Set a Follow-up
Agree on a date to review the plan and make adjustments if needed. Stopping bullying is an ongoing process, not a one-time meeting.

6.  Advocate if Progress Stalls
If the problem isn’t resolved, make it clear you’ll escalate your concerns:

• Start with the district office
• In cases of severe, racist, or sexual bullying, contact local law enforcement and/or the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights

Remember You’re Not Alone
Bullying Recovery Resource Center is here to defend bullied children and support families in recovery. If you need guidance, advocacy, or someone to walk you through the process, go to our website and click the “get help” button. Together, we can make sure every child feels safe, respected and supported.