Nothing is more painful than to watch and hear a parent talk about the loss of a child. Even more painful is when that child takes their own life. In recent news accounts, we’ve learned of two young ladies who took their lives after being bullied through “sexting”.

If you had asked me two months ago what the term “sexting” meant, I could not have given you any kind of credible answer, and I have teenagers. In simple terms, we have children sending messages and photos over cell phones and the internet that show themselves, and others, in less than appropriate ways. Once these messages and photos are public they can, and do, go viral.

In fact, according to an Associated Press-MTV poll, more than a quarter of young people have been involved in sexting in some form. And half of all young people surveyed said they have been targets of digital bullying.

As parents, teachers and administrators we need to do everything possible to make sure our students know that these actions have consequences. Children make decisions each day that, if given a chance, they would change. Our children need to know that “sexting” is wrong, but they also need to know that the bullying is wrong as well. And we need to emphasize the impact of words because we know all too well that they hurt too.

To parents, grandparents, and any adult role model, I ask that you please talk to your children and help them understand that these issues are serious. Do everything possible to monitor their use of their phone messaging and the internet. “Sexting” is wrong, bullying is wrong and everyone needs to always be mindful of their actions. No parent or family should ever face the loss of a child over this!

If you need help talking to your child about cyber bullying, visit http://www.pta.org/bullying.asp for resources and information.

Until we meet again . . .