How to Support a Child Who Is Being Bullied

Practical strategies for parents to listen, validate, and partner with schools when a child experiences bullying. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Creating a Space for Open Communication. When a child discloses that they are being bullied, parents who respond with calm, active listening often find that their child feels more empowered to share details. Avoid interrupting or jumping to immediate solutions; instead, use open-ended questions like 'What happened next?' or 'How did that make you feel?' to get a complete picture of the situation. It is common for children to fear that telling an adult will make the bullying worse. Acknowledging this fear and validating their feelings—rather than dismissing the incident as 'just kids being kids'—builds the trust necessary for your child to continue coming to you for help.
2. Approaching School Intervention. Many families find success by documenting specific incidents, including dates, times, and any witnesses involved. This information is essential when communicating with teachers, school counselors, or administrators. When meeting with school staff, approach the conversation as a partner seeking a resolution rather than an adversary. Ask the school about their specific policies regarding peer conflict and bullying. Different schools have varying protocols for mediation and disciplinary action, and understanding these processes helps you advocate effectively for your child’s safety and well-being within the educational environment.