As Australia marked the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence on 16 March, a website has provided key signs which can indicate to parents that their children may be being bullied.
A quarter of Australian kids report they’ve been bullied repeatedly and half say they’ve experienced bullying at least once, but parents aren’t always aware there’s a problem or if they should step in, according to parenting website raisingchildren.net.au.
“It is important children are not left to sort out bullying on their own as it can be devastating for a child’s confidence and self-esteem,” said Associate Professor Julie Green, Executive Director of the website.
“If parents are aware their child is being bullied they can take steps together with other key people, for example teachers, to quickly stop it. There is no single way to tell if your child is being bullied if they don’t tell you, but there are some social, emotional and physical signs parents and carers can look out for.”
Key signs can include unexplained bruises, cuts and scratches; poor eating and sleeping habits; not wanting to go to school or social events; bedwetting; complaints about headaches or stomach aches; missing property; and/or torn clothing.
“You might notice your child might seem unusually anxious, upset, nervous, teary, withdrawn or secretive and these behaviours become more pronounced at the end of the weekend or holidays, when the child has to go back to school,” Professor Green said. “Listen to what your child has to tell you and make it clear that you will help.”
It can be difficult to know for sure if a child is being bullied but talking about bullying within families is one of the best ways to help and protect children.
“Days like today’s National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence are an important opportunity to start a conversation at home about bullying, why it’s not OK, and how we can support children on this issue,” Professor Green said.
Raisingchildren.net.au has more tips on talking with children about bullying, how to recognise bullying, working with the school, as well as information on what to do if parents suspect their child is a bully.
The site, visited by more than 50,000 parents a day, offers free articles, videos and other resources backed by Australian experts.