Head of Balto. Co. school offers parents advice on bullying

OWINGS MILLS, Md. - In light of the White House Bullying Summit, Ben Shifrin, Head of Jemicy School in Owings Mills is offering some advice about how partents can help their children if they are bullied.

Shifrin says, parents should understand the potentially serious and lasting effects bullying can have on young people.

He also stresses that parents should recognize that technology is a major platform to hold bulling; in fact, cyber bullying is thefastest growing form of bullying, with middle school aged girls being the most vulnerable.

Shifrin says parents should maintain open communication with children, encourage them to speak up if something is bothering them. He says parents should take children's complaints seriously.

If your child tells you he or she is being bullied, believe them. Shifrin says kids don't typically exaggerate about being bullied. Also, if it is happening, intervene. Although your child might not like it-- it is something that you, as a parent, need to do.