Supporting children who are being bullied
Is your child being bullied?
Knowing your child is being bullied can be very upsetting but it is very common in primary school-aged children. Children may bully other children because they are experiencing changes in their own lives so are experimenting with power and boundaries.
How to tell if your child is being bullied
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shyness around other children
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trouble expressing their thoughts
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low self-confidence
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appearing anxious or fearful
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not wanting to talk about school
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avoid situations such as going to school
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school work declining
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ripped clothing
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not eating lunch or going hungry
How to help if your child is being bullied
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listen to your child and encourage them to tell you what's happened
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try to stay calm and not act too shocked when they talk to you about what's happened – if you over-react this may scare them into not sharing anything else with you
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explain some reasons for bullying, it may help you child understand that it's not their fault
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tell your child that you know there is a problem and that you will work together to find a solution, when you think of some options, help your child to choose the best solution to try
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do not encourage them to fight back as this can often lead to more bullying
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practise your solution through role play or writing things down, then put it in to action
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praise your child for talking to you about the bullying and for coming up with a solution to resolve it
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get your school involved where appropriate
The above content has been adapted from Worcestershire County Council, visit their website for more information on supporting your child with bullying.
If you are a parent or carer of a child or young person who is being bullied, the Young Minds website includes lots of useful advice and information, they can also support you through their Parents Helpline. They are here to listen to you, and give you free, confidential advice and information