What are some signs your child is being bullied?

For the victim of bullying, it can be such a shameful feeling that it is often kept secret and hidden from the victim's family.  However, for the observant and attentative parent - there are some warning signs.

Here is a good link to a document published by the US Dept. of Health that outlines some of the more obvious signs and some ways that a parent can bridge that communication gap. Once a parent has a clear understanding and knows that their child is being bullied, then the communication lines with that child is already open and a plan can be developed on how to best handle the bully or bullies.

http://www.stopbullyingnow.hrsa.gov/hhs_psa/pdfs/sbn_tip_7.pdf

I continue to maintain the philosophy that the victim of bullying should be the one who stands up to their bully or bullies without having outside intervention (EXCEPT - in severe and/or special circumstances).  The reason why I feel this way is that it is critically important for the victim to stand up is to build self-esteem.  Having the strength to confront the bully face to face also teaches the victim that most bullies can be stopped by those who stand up for themselves.