By Cybersmile Foundation
 
Aunts, teach your nieces and nephews to speak up ... That is the best advice I can give to anyone whether being bullied online or in person. Kids should not be afraid to let someone know what is going on in their life. Even if it's not the parents they tell, maybe it's a friend they have, a teacher, a pastor, or another close relative, like an aunt. Have them let someone know because they should not have to go through bullying moments alone.
 
When they go at it alone, things can get worse. Kids’ mental state can go haywire when they bottle up all their emotions inside, and don't share them with others. Have them feel comfortable putting their trust in someone else. A lot of times, many kids that are bullied don't tell anyone because they don't trust anyone. Kids often go into a vulnerable state of mind when being bullied and feel as though everyone is out to get them. But your nieces and nephews have to trust and believe there is someone out there that can help them through their bullying crisis.
 
Another piece of advice, when a kid is being bullied, is to help them find their happy place. Do not constantly focus on the bullies. Kids should focus on whatever makes them happy - whether it be something spiritual, reading a good book, spending time with family, or other activities.
 
The Cybersmile Foundation is a multi-award winning cyberbullying non-profit organization committed to tackling all forms of online bullying and hate campaigns.
 
Our mission is a simple one; we believe everyone should be able to enjoy being part of the new connected online world. However, online abuse and bullying is rife, holding many back from enjoying the benefits that this connected community can provide. This community lacks the social rules of engagement that have been cultivated over generations, governing the behavior and relationships in the communities where we live, play and work – the physical world. We are committed to helping everyone realize their potential by supporting those who are bullied and by changing the behavior of the bullies themselves. To learn more, please visit our cybersmile.org

Photo: workingword via Flickr cc
Published: July 7, 2014