The role of the bystander is critical in preventing bullying.  Research shows that bullying typically involves a group dynamic, where others egg on the instigator or witness what is occurring.  Passive bystanders allow the bullying to continue even if they are not directly complicit.  Empower your child to be an active bystander who speaks up and defends the child being bullied.  Also, encourage your children and their friends to not exclude or isolate other students but to make children feel welcome and part of a larger group.  As a parent, if your child reports to you that another child at school is being bullied or if you witness a bullying incident, report it to your child’s teacher or the school’s principal.