Friendships and social skills
What should parents do if their child is being bullied?
Direct answer
Listen calmly, reassure the child that reporting was right and work with the school on a safety-focused plan. Record specific incidents and agree how concerns will be followed up. Avoid blaming the child or telling them that retaliation is the only solution.
What this means in practice
Ask what happened, who was involved and what the child fears will happen next. Share information with appropriate school staff and monitor whether the response improves safety. Emotional support matters alongside action to stop harmful behaviour.
Practical next steps
- Keep a factual incident record.
- Contact the responsible school staff.
- Agree follow-up and safety arrangements.
Illustrative example
A parent can request a meeting about repeated playground incidents and ask who the child can approach during breaks.
What to keep in mind
Seek further help if harm continues, the response is inadequate or the child's wellbeing is affected.
Sources and further reading
The sources inform the explanation. Practical examples are educational illustrations, not individual clinical advice. How these answers are prepared.
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