If your child tells you something is happening, start here:
• Listen first. Let your child explain what happened without making them feel blamed, embarrassed, or responsible.
• Write it down. Keep a record of dates, times, locations, what happened, who was involved, and who may have witnessed it.
• Save the evidence. Keep screenshots, messages, emails, photos, social media posts, and other relevant information. Avoid publicly reposting identifying information about children.
• Ask about safety. Find out where your child feels unsafe, when incidents are happening, and whether they are afraid to return to school, an activity, or another setting.
• Report the concern. Contact the appropriate teacher, counselor, administrator, coach, organization, or platform and clearly explain what has been happening.
• Keep communication. Save copies of emails and notes from phone calls or meetings, including dates and the names of the people you spoke with.
• Follow up. Ask what steps are being taken, when you should expect an update, and who you should contact if the behavior continues.
Most importantly: remind your child that asking for help was the right thing to do.
You do not have to solve everything in one day. Start with safety, listen, document, report, and keep advocating.
