HERE IS WHAT TO DO IF YOUR CHILD IS CYBERBULLIED:

Hold "the talk."

If your child isn't talking about cyberbullying, don't assume he hasn't been affected. Start the discussion: "What have you heard about?" "What are other kids saying?" Let your child know you're aware of this new trend and you are on the alert and are monitoring your computer.

State your values.

Never assume your child understands why cyberbullying is cruel and wrong. Take time to explain: "In this house we believe in kindness. I expect you to be kind." Be clear on your values.

Dig deeper.

Inform school officials or contact the police if it continues. Get the facts so you can create a safety plan for your child: How often is this happening, when, where, and by whom?

Set clear "electronic" rules.

"Never put anything on a cell phone, I-Message, website, email or pager that is hurtful." "Never send anything you wouldn't want said about you."

Save evidence.

Tell your child if he ever receives something that is hurtful, slanderous, hateful, to save or print the message. You may need it to identify the bully or contact their parents with evidence.

Block further communication.

If your child is victimized change your phone number or e-mail account, and talk to your provider. Contact police for threats of violence and extortion.

Monitor that computer.

Keep your computer in a central space and out of your kid's bedroom.

Pull the plug.

If your child ever uses a cell phone, pager, answering machine, or fax, to send vicious gossip or hate, remove the electronic gizmo from your kid and pull the computer plug from power surge.

Teach assertive skills.

Research finds that kids who learn how to be assertive and appear more confident are less likely to be targeted by bullies. In fact, studies show it's often not how "different" your child looks or acts but rather her victim-like demeanor that makes her an easy target. So teach your child an arsenal of strategies she can use to defuse a bully and then practice with her until she feels confident in using them on her own.

Take your child seriously.

This is painful stuff and your child needs your empathy and support. Watch your child carefully and tune into his or her emotional signs. Don't let your child be victimized.