Bullying: What to Watch For and How to Help

Bullying is a painful experience that can affect a child’s emotional, social, and academic wellbeing. It’s not always obvious, and children don’t always speak up—often due to fear, embarrassment, or not fully understanding what’s happening. As caregivers and educators, knowing the signs and how to respond can make a crucial difference in a child’s life.

Children who are being bullied may show changes in behaviour, such as withdrawing from friends, becoming more anxious or irritable, losing interest in school, or suddenly avoiding certain places. Physical signs like unexplained injuries or lost belongings can also be red flags. Emotional signs might include difficulty sleeping, low self-esteem, or frequent complaints of stomach-aches or headaches with no medical cause.

Bullying can be verbal, physical, social (exclusion), or digital. Cyberbullying can be hard to detect and deeply hurtful, as it follows children into their personal spaces. Regardless of the form, consistent bullying can impact a child’s ability to trust others, express emotions, and feel safe.

If you suspect your child is being bullied, start by creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can open up. Avoid overreacting, which might cause them to shut down, and instead listen calmly and validate their feelings. Reassure them that they’re not to blame and that you're there to help.

It’s important to document incidents and, when necessary, involve the school or other relevant authorities. Encourage your child to stay connected with supportive friends and adults, and if the emotional impact is significant, consider involving a child therapist. Professional support can help children build resilience, self-confidence, and healthy coping skills.

Empowering children with the tools to speak up, set boundaries, and seek help lays the foundation for long-term emotional strength and confidence. Together, we can help children feel seen, supported, and safe.