Now that students are getting ready to return to school, parents may be worried about injuries to children and minors. Many children return home from school with scrapes and minor injuries. In some cases, these are caused by nothing more than schoolyard accidents. In some cases, however, personal injuries are caused by bullying.
Bullying is a serious problem in our schools. Bullies often taunt and assault their victims. In rare cases, bullying has lead to attacks that have resulted in head injuries, spinal cord injuries, and even fatalities. Many victims of bullying become withdrawn and depressed. Victims often struggle with self-esteem and even their school work as a result of their bullying experiences. In some cases, victims of bullying have attempted or committed suicide as a result of their experiences. Obviously, this is a serious problem that needs to be addressed.
Talk to your child about bullying. If your child becomes withdrawn, is suddenly reluctant to go to school, or comes home with any injuries or scrapes, have a talk with your child about bullying. Encourage your child to talk with you about what has happened and ensure that your child knows that the bullying is not his or her fault. Even if your child shows no signs of being bullied, talk to your child about bullying and make sure that your child knows he or she can talk to you about bullying or any other worrying subject.
If your child is being bullied or you suspect that your child may be bullied, talk to your child’s school. Speak to a principal and your child’s teacher. Schools have an obligation to prevent injuries to children in their care. Ensure that the school has a zero-tolerance approach to bullying and takes appropriate actions to protect your child. Outline what you want to see happen to keep your child safe. Follow up to ensure that the correct steps are being taken and encourage your child’s school to show presentations or hold workshops about bullying to raise awareness about the subject.
If you are not satisfied with the school’s response and the bullying continues, you may need professional assistance. Talk to a qualified attorney. You should not worry about your child sustaining serious personal injuries in school and the school should be taking steps to keep your child safe. If this is not happening, a good Florida attorney can negotiate with the school on your behalf. If your child has sustained personal injuries as a result of bullying at a school, a good Florida personal injury attorney can help you get the full assistance you are entitled to under the law. This can help you pay for the best help and medical care for your child.
It is important to develop a no-tolerance policy towards bullying. Do not allow parents or school administrators to tell you that bullying is “normal,” “a phase” or the result of a bully’s broken home. Even if a bully requires help as well, that does not change the fact that your child is entitled to be safe and comfortable in his or her school environment. Pursue the matter until your child is no longer bullied.