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Many kids are experiencing cyber-bullying now that there is more access to the internet. In some areas, there are even technology classrooms, that allow for students to get online while they are in class and they can visit various websites as well as email each other. When it comes to being safe online, there are many things that need to be considered. Most people think about the inappropriate media that children should not see, and protect them from contacting strangers online, but often, many forget that there are ways that those that you know can also cause emotional and sometimes even result in physical harm.
Cyber-bullying is common online. As a teacher, you can be aware of what is happening in the classroom and create an atmosphere where your students feel that they can come and talk to you about anything that they are experiencing. Talking openly about cyber bullying and why it is not OK would also be helpful to many students. When the standard is clearly set, it is much easier for students to know that is expected as well as for those experiencing bullying to feel that they can come forward and talk about it.
Cyber-bullying is very serious. There has been an increase in the number of children who have taken their own lives because they felt that there was no way out, no way to avoid the bullying that they were experiencing.
As a teacher you have great influence on your students, and by simply talking to them about it, you can make a difference.
