St. John’s Episcopal Church is hosting an important forum for parents, “Bullying: What Every Parent Needs to Know,” at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 13.

According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, nearly 50 percent of all children will be subjected to bullying while they are at elementary or secondary school. And at least 10 percent of children are bullied on a regular basis. The stress from being bullied can create problems for children at school. Students may be fearful of attending school, riding the bus, using the bathroom or being alone in the hallway. Many suffer in silence out of shame and humiliation.

This event, led by the Kirkland Police Department, will help parents better understand bullying and its effects on children while offering strategies for protecting children from either being bullied or becoming a bully. A potluck begins before the event at 6 p.m. There is no admission fee and children’s and youth activities are available at no cost. Nursery care is available only upon request. Please call the church office at 425-827-3077 to reserve your spot.

St. John’s is located at 127 State Street in Kirkland.