Help your kids deal with intimidation so they can feel happy and safe - at school and in cyberspace.

Unfortunately, nasty bullies are everywhere - at school, in the office and, increasingly, online. Despite zero-tolerance policies in schools and workplaces, this damaging behaviour continues. So how can you identify a bully - and stop them making your children miserable?

Spotting a bully

It can be difficult to recognise a bully. Being victimised can often lead to a loss of confidence, and victims might believe they are the cause. You might meet the child who's said to be bullying your youngster, or the person bullying your friend, and find that they're delightful. Then, you may start questioning the validity of the complaint. Make sure you're familiar with the profile of a bully.

Help for the victims

-Praise them for telling you

A lot of children are embarrassed about being bullied and are reluctant to tell anyone. If your child tells you, thank them for opening up.

-Remind them it's not their fault
Kids commonly believe they deserve to be bullied. Convince them that they don't.

-Teach them not to fight back
It's tempting to tell your kids to stand up for themselves, but that could increase the chance of someone getting seriously hurt. Children should be brave and walk away. Most schools have a buddy system and spending time with their buddy after being bullied helps a child to feel safe. Teachers need to be told if bullying occurs and parents must follow up after a child makes a report.

-Teach kids about cyber-bullying
Online bullying is increasing every day. Children need to be taught that what they say on the internet can be used as evidence against them. Tell them they shouldn't say anything online that they wouldn't say to the person's face.

 -Teach them to support friends who are being bullied
One of the hardest things for a child to do is support a friend who's being bullied. Remind them that a good friend doesn't stand by and watch a friend in trouble. Friends turn their backs on a bully, even if they're not victims.

More from New Idea