School safety resources for kids and teens - Children's National

Violence at school (including bullying, fights, and assaults) can be both scary and frustrating. It can feel like you do not know where to start to get help. Here are some tips that might help.

Where to start

• Talk to your parent/guardian or another adult you trust about what happened.
• Do not keep your feelings inside. Talking to someone can help you figure out a plan and how to deal with the issue.
• Stay away from places where bullying or fights happen and stay near adults and other kids at school. Most bullying happens when adults are not around.

Helpful resources and options

• Inform the school: If you need help addressing bullying and fights at school, ask a teacher or school employee for help. They may set up a meeting with your parents. If another child was involved in the incident, their parents may or may not be invited.
• Mediations: All affected families and children involved come together at school to discuss the incident and find a safe resolution.
• Mental health support: Many schools have mental health support available at school. If you are struggling with fear, sadness, or anger after the incident, ask the school for help.

Additional tips

• Plan a route to school that has lots of people.
• During school, have a friend that you walk to class with.
• Pick a teacher or staff member you trust to go to if you need help.
• After school, head straight to your destination.
• Log out of social media and avoid posting your location until after you have left.
• Take your lunch and free periods where staff are present.
• Stay aware of your surrounding (avoid walking with headphones and using your phone)