Law enforcement officials are offering some tips to prevent bullying his school year.

The Lapeer County Sheriff’s Department reports “bullying can be physical, verbal, or social,” and continues that it “can have tragic consequences.”

This school year, the Sheriff has some tips on how to handle bullying, inside or outside the classroom. Help your child learn how to respond by teaching your child how to look the bully in the eye, stand tall and stay calm in a difficult situation, and walk away.

Try to encourage your child to make friends and be involved.

If you child IS the bully, the sheriff reports to do the following:

• Be sure your child knows that bullying is NEVER ok.
• Set firm and consistent limits on your child’s aggressive behavior
• Be a positive role model
• Use effective, non-physical discipline, such as loss of privileges
• Develop practical solutions with the school principal, teachers, counselors, and parents of the children your child has bullied.

Also, if you child witnesses bullying, be sure they report it to someone in authority.