Stop bullying with these tips Schools nationwide recently received a letter from the Department of Education to support educators in combating bullying. But teachers and parents can't be everywhere.

That's why we liked the guidelines at www.bullyinginfo.org, set up by several federal agencies. They provide good advice on preventing and dealing with bullies and are geared to kids as well as the grown-ups who want to protect them.

Most important, if you're being bullied or know someone who is, tell an adult. Here are other tips from the site:

1. Don't fight back or try to bully the people who want to bully you.

2. If you can, calmly tell the bully to stop, or say nothing and walk away. "Calmly" is the key word.

3. Use humor, if you are able to. If a student makes fun of your shirt, laugh and say, "Yeah, I think this shirt is kind of funny-looking, too." No, your shirt isn't funny-looking -- but you have just robbed the culprits of getting satisfaction from their mean-spirited intentions.

4. Try to avoid situations in which bullying might happen. If you can, avoid areas of school where not many students or teachers are around. What's more, try to hang out with your friends at lunch, between classes and after school.

Responding to cyberbullying can be more challenging because antagonizers can remain anonymous. The government's Stop Bullying Now! website has great information to help parents address cyberbullying (www.stopbullyingnow.hrsa.gov).

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

Help a senior for the holidays Twin Cities families can help disadvantaged older people this holiday season through the Be a Santa to a Senior program.

"Most people aren't aware that there are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of seniors in every community who have no family and are alone," said Dan Arnold, an owner of a Home Instead Senior Care office serving the Twin Cities. "What's more, this holiday season finds many older adults struggling to make ends meet."

Through Dec. 10, Prairie Stone Pharmacies in the Twin Cities will have trees bearing ornaments with the first names of needy seniors and their gift requests. Shoppers can then buy the items and return them unwrapped to the store with the ornament. Volunteers will wrap and deliver the gifts to the seniors.

For locations and other information, visit www.beasantatoasenior.com or call 1-888-484-5759.