I guess, we would all like to think that our children are safe at school or at other activities; but soon discover the ugly behavior of some children. There is no quick resolution to the problem, and if my children were being victimized -- through harassment, harmful threats or by liable gossip via electronic gadgetry or in person -- I would be more than hot under the collar.

I have always told my children they need to stick up for themselves. Say "no" -- loud and clear. They would be surprised how quickly bullies back down. However, there are many that have been raised by parents that allow bullying or turn their eyes and responsibility away from their children's bad (and now in some areas unlawful) behavior.

I strongly suggest enrolling children into martial arts to obtain the exercise, discipline and confidence they need; and perhaps to one day protect them against physical assault. It's not with the thought to beat-up an assailant or bully(lies); rather to allow inner confidence to shine through, inhibiting them from being targeted.

I Strongly agree with Rubia, martial arts can give a child confidence, agility, strength and knowledge.
The thing we really have to instill in our kids is self confidence. If our kids are confident in themselves then what ever a bully chooses to pick at will not affect them as much. I also think having a strong friend circle is important because bullies tend to pick on the loaner.
We as parents need to keep an open ear to our kids at all times. Make sure kids know they have a parent to come to that can help with the problem and not make it worse by flying off the handle or blind lecturing.
Remember that all schools in the state have a zero tolerance bullying policy, check with the school, find out what they recommend as well.

I always tell my kids that standing by watching someone being bullied and not doing anything is just as bad as being a bully. If they don't want to confront the bully directly they can go to a teacher, the principal or any staff member. It's also important that they talk to the person being bullied and ask them if they are OK. I also teach them that spreading gossip about someone is also a form of bullying - and if they hear a rumor they should not pass it along and do what they can to stop it. Fortunately, my kids seemed pretty strong-willed and capable of standing up for themselves but I know that may not always be the case. I always keep the lines of communication open with them and look for any potential issues.

There are effective research proven ways for all of us non-bullies to use to stop bullying by 50%. And who knows if we stop it that much it might drop even lower as it is seen to be unpopular behavior.
We all need to get involved as anti-bullying bystanders. Bystander behavior are actions we make to tell about the bullying, befriend the victim, and intervene to stop bullying episodes.

I am a retired teacher and my kids were bullied. I now write humorous realistic fiction(Revenge of the Dorkoids) that revolves around grade school bullying and models bystander behavior. If interested check it out at www.dorkoids.com

My kids both ride the bus. The drivers are there to drive. Period. There is no supervision on the buses so the bullying I hear about takes place primarily on the bus.

I have personally witnessed bullying on the bus, contacted the school immediately and the child was removed from the bus. Riding the bus is a priviledge, not a right. If the parents are forced to drive their children to and from school, perhaps they will educate their kids to know what behavior is appropriate and acceptable.

My kids talk to me about their days and I encourage them to let their teachers know if they are having a problem with another student. My message to them is simple "You will encounter people who say and do mean, hateful things your entire life. Make the choice to be a better person."