Bullying: What can I do as a parent?

What can we do as parents, to help our children?

• Be calm
• Listen
• Reassure
• Raise their confidence
• Get advice

Be calm

In some ways this will be one of the hardest things for you as a parent. When you know that your own child is going through something so difficult, our emotions sometimes get the better of us. The best thing you can do is to stay calm. Don’t let them be worried about your reaction or what you might do. Remember this is about them and how you can help support them.

Listen

Be available for them. Listen to what they have to say without asking too many questions at first. Let them get it all out. For some children they will be happy to talk to you, for others they may find this difficult. Let them know that there are other ways to communicate; they can draw a picture or write it down and pass it to you. Whichever way they chose to communicate, the important thing is to listen. Give them time and your full attention. If you are in the middle of something that can be stopped then let them know when you will be available.

Reassure

They have been brave in telling you what they are going through. Reassure them that they have done the right thing in sharing this and you will help them.

Raise their confidence

When children are bullied, their confidence can be affected. Find an interest that they enjoy, take them to the park, skating, anything that will help them feel good about themselves.

Get Advice

If the bullying is happening at school, speak to the school. Ask for their behaviour policy (it should be on their website), go with notes and dates of when incidents have occurred. Be prepared for the meeting.

Remember to consult with your GP who can signpost you to professional help. Childline, NSPCC, Anti-Bullying Alliance are also great sources of information.

Reach out to us if like to understand how we can support you and your child.

Meet our online Masterclass

These weekly sessions are designed specifically to help children develop their confidence, understand how to master their emotions and foster relationships. These sessions are run live, online and with small groups, they are a unique opportunity for children to discuss topics in a safe environment.