Often when kids are bullied they avoid the rest of the groups in school and thus do not participate in all the activities. And perhaps during lunchtime they seek refuge in the library or wait until the very last minute to get to school or stay later and walk home a different direction. Maybe they run home a different way? All this to avoid bullying, which is getting more out of hand as violence in schools goes unchecked, as these choose students go out of their way to prevent being attacked.

Indeed, avoidance is a choice and those who choose to give up, have made that choice right? Of course as some students who have been bullied point out if they do not avoid the bullies they might get their nose broken and this has happened more than once. Is that the answer?

Should parents and teachers intervene or should they allow the kids to work out their differences? Perhaps a combination might be best and we also need to understand that a person is responsible for them selves and should not expect anyone to rescue them, they must rescue themselves.

These are all things we must consider because bullying in school is a fact of life and it will not go away until the kids choose to stop. Perhaps you should talk to your children about bullying and give them some pointers on defense.

If your children are the ones doing the bullying then perhaps you might explain to them that that person they are bullying may grow up and be someone very important someday - you just never know and our society needs them is much as they need you. They should be able to understand that. Kids aren't stupid.

L. Winslow is an Economic Advisor to the Online Think Tank, a Futurist and retired entrepreneur. Currently he is planning a bicycle ride across the US to raise money for charity and is sponsored by http://www.Calling-Plans.com and all the proceeds will go to various charities who sign up.