How To Help Your Child If They Are Being Bullied

Step 1: Get All The Facts

Children do not usually tell their parents they are being bullied because they are scared or even ashamed. If your child tells you that they are being bullied it is very important that you take it seriously, get all the facts and listen to them. Find out how many bullies there are, who they are, what they are doing and how often they are doing it.

Step 2: Reassure Your Child

The most important thing to do is to reassure your child that being bullied is not their fault, and is not a reflection on their character in any way. Whatever you do, do not tell them to retaliate as this will not get them anywhere and will only encourage the bully further. Make it clear that they have done the right thing by telling you and that you will support them and help them.

Step 3: Talk To The School

It is essential that your child's school are made aware of the situation and act on it. Go to the school and talk to the teachers and head teacher. Leave it to the school to approach the bully's parents, and if necessary ask them to arrange a meeting for you all. That way you can all work together to find a solution.

Step 4: Regularly Check The Situation

Once you have notified the school, keep tabs on the situation by regularly talking to your child to check that the bullying has stopped. Check regularly with the school to see how your child is. Encourage them to be open and honest with you about what is going on. If the bullying continues, notify the school again.

Step 5: Build Your Child's Confidence

Do all you can to build up your child's confidence. Point out all their positive attributes and encourage them to build on them. This will make them feel more confident around their peers. Encourage them to invite their friends over for their own enjoyment but also so you can see how confident they are amongst their friends. Teach them how to stay safe, what to do and where to go if they feel threatened by a bully.

Step 6: Praise Your Child

Always make sure that your child knows that they can come to you if there are any problems and that you will help them find a solution. Boost their confidence and reassure them that the bully has picked on them because they are intelligent, attractive and popular. Always empathize with your child, and tell them you are proud of them for having the courage to come to you for help.