What should I do if my child is being bullied at school?
Let’s take a moment to reflect on how we protect children and create emotionally safe learning environments. If your child is being bullied, or if you suspect something is wrong, this is an important time to pause, observe and take gentle, purposeful action.
Learning that your child may be experiencing bullying can feel overwhelming. Most parents describe a mix of sadness, worry and an urgent need to make things better. Your first priority is to help your child feel believed, safe and supported. Children cope best when the adults around them respond with steady reassurance.
Gentleness works
Begin with gentle conversations. Children often try to hide difficult experiences through fear of making things worse. Give them space, listen carefully and remind them it is not their fault. If talking is tricky, encourage drawing, writing or simple scales such as “How worried did you feel today?” These approaches help them express themselves in a way that feels manageable.
When they feel heard, gather clear information. Note what is happening, when and who is involved. This is not interrogation, but calm fact-finding. It gives schools the detail they need to intervene effectively and understand the pattern of what your child is experiencing.
Speak to your child’s school about bullying concerns
Share your concerns with the school promptly and collaboratively. Teachers want students to feel safe, but they can only act on what they know. Arrange a meeting, bring your notes and ask how they plan to protect and support your child. A calm, joined approach between home and school is often the most effective safeguard.
Home is a safe place
At home, focus on restoring confidence. Bullying erodes self-worth, so predictability and connection matter. Maintain routine, ensure plenty of rest and encourage activities that bring joy or a sense of competence. Celebrate effort rather than perfection. These steady, everyday moments play a vital role in rebuilding resilience.
Some children benefit from additional professional support, particularly if they become anxious, withdrawn or reluctant to attend school. A one to one tutor can offer a calm, emotionally safe environment where confidence grows gradually. For pupils with SEND needs, this personalised support can be especially powerful.
Progress is rarely instant, but with consistent adult support, children feel protected rather than alone. National Anti-Bullying Week is a timely reminder that every child deserves to feel safe, valued and free to learn without fear. With the right partnership between home and school, and through steady emotional support, children can regain their confidence and move forward with strength.
If your child is being bullied, listen calmly and reassure them it is not their fault. Gather details, speak with the school and agree on a clear safeguarding plan. At home, focus on routine, connection and confidence building, and consider one-to-one support if anxiety develops. Listen, reassure, gather information and work with the school. Restore confidence at home and seek one-to-one support if anxiety or school avoidance appears.
Being bullied can leave lasting scars and so supportive language and early intervention can help your child to heal.
Key actions
- Believe them and respond calmly
- Record what is happening
- Contact the school early
- Rebuild confidence at home
- Add one to one support if needed
In summary:
- How should I talk to my child about bullying?: Use open questions, avoid pressure and reassure them they are safe with you.
- Should I notify the school?: Yes. Schools need information to act promptly and appropriately.
- My child is now anxious about school. What should I do?: Speak to the school immediately and request a plan. A calm one to one learning space can help them re-engage.
- How can I rebuild their confidence?: Keep routines predictable, celebrate small achievements and encourage enjoyable activities.
- Is tutoring useful in bullying situations?: Many children benefit from a safe one to one environment where learning confidence can be restored.
Kae Ormerod
Company Director
