Children with special needs are at an increased risk of being bullied than their “typical” peers. Lack of communication skills, social challenges, decreased coping skills, and physical vulnerabilities can all contribute to the bullying of a child with special needs.
If you feel your child is being bullied, report it IMMEDIATELY in writing! Follow the correct procedures set forth by the Department of Education in conjunction with the HIB (HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION AND BULLING) POLICY within your school District. Document everything!
It is important to remember that there are LAWS that protect our children from being bullied! Know your rights as parents, and know your children’s rights!
State of New Jersey
Department of Education
Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying (HIB)
http://www.state.nj.us/education/students/safety/behavior/hib/
Guidance for Parents on the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act
http://www.state.nj.us/education/students/safety/behavior/hib/ParentGuide.pdf
New Jersey Coalition for Bullying Awareness and Prevention
http://www.njbullying.org/index.htm
New Jersey Education Association
https://www.njea.org/issues/anti-bullying/
PACER’S National Bullying Prevention Center
http://www.pacer.org/bullying/resources/students-with-disabilities/