Children’s Health: Talk to your children about bullying as school begins

Now is the time to talk to your children about bullying at school. Make sure to emphasize that communication is the first step. Getty Images/iStockphoto

As your family prepares for everything fall has to offer, much of it involves the return of the school routine. This year, however, make sure you tackle the tough issue of bullying with your children.

Childhood bullying is a pressing issue in the United States. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, nearly one in every five students ages 12-18 experiences bullying during a school year. It can cause lasting harm, both physically and emotionally, and elicit anxiety, depression, substance use and relationship difficulties for a person’s entire life.

When educating your children about bullying, communication is alwa