Hidden signs your child is being bullied

Parents reveal warning signs they almost missed, including sudden anger, school refusal, and changes in appearance.

“We noticed it happening, but my son thought it was just a game.”

Bullying statistics for children

35% of children aged 10 to 15 in England and Wales experienced in-person bullying in the year ending March 2023, while 19% experienced online bullying.

Children don't recognize bullying

Children may feel embarrassed or worry about making the situation worse without recognizing what's happening as bullying.

8 hidden signs of bullying

Sudden anger, appearance changes, school refusal, friendship changes, phone behavior shifts, sleep or eating habits, schoolwork decline, and missing belongings.

Sudden anger and self-hatred

Children may become angry, say negative things about themselves, and refuse school after bullying starts.

“We noticed it happening, but my son thought it was just a game.”

Appearance changes to hide features

Children pull out hair, wear different hairstyles, or cover their face to hide features they're being targeted for.

“My daughter was continuously bullied at school for upper lip hair, being asian her hair is dark so it was more noticeable.”

School refusal patterns

Children may complain of unexplained illnesses, have anxiety about school, or avoid school on specific days.

Friendship changes

Children may stop seeing friends, avoid birthday parties, or lose interest in activities they once enjoyed.

Phone usage changes

Children may become upset after checking their phone, avoid notifications, or stay up late checking messages.

Sleep and eating habits

Children may struggle to sleep, experience disrupted sleep, or lose appetite after bullying starts.

Schoolwork decline

Children may lose interest in hobbies, clubs, or activities they previously loved after bullying.

Missing or damaged belongings

Children may have unexplained injuries, missing items, or damaged belongings after bullying.

Why children don't tell parents

Children may not recognize bullying, feel embarrassed, or worry about losing friendships.

What parents should do

Start conversations without pressure, listen, involve children in solutions, and speak to schools about bullying.

Rebuilding confidence

Help children maintain interests, find new belonging, and express themselves through creative activities.

When to seek help

Contact NSPCC, Childline, or school for support if bullying continues or affects mental health.