From MadeForMums · · 1m 30s
Hidden signs of child bullying
Parents spot 8 subtle signs their child might be bullied.
In brief
Parents spot 8 subtle signs their child might be bullied. Parents notice sudden anger, school refusal, appearance changes, and other signs when their child is bullied. Originally reported by MadeForMums.
Sudden anger or self-hatred
Parents notice children becoming angry or saying negative things about themselves.
“We noticed it happening, but my son thought it was just a game”
Changing appearance
Children hide features like upper lip hair to avoid bullying.
“My daughter was continuously bullied at school for upper lip hair”
School refusal
Children avoid school due to bullying, often with unexplained illnesses.
“My daughter was continuously bullied at school for upper lip hair”
Friendship changes
Children stop seeing friends or become withdrawn from social groups.
“They might avoid birthday parties or lose interest in activities”
Phone behavior changes
Children become upset or anxious after checking their phone.
“You might notice your child becoming upset, angry or flat after checking their phone”
Sleep or eating changes
Children have trouble sleeping or eating due to bullying.
“Some children may struggle to fall asleep or experience disrupted sleep”
Schoolwork decline
Children lose interest in hobbies or school activities.
“A child who is worried about what might happen at school may find it harder to concentrate”
Missing or damaged belongings
Children have unexplained injuries or damaged items.
“A pattern of damaged possessions, unexplained bruises or your child becoming unusually protective of their belongings”
Why children don't tell parents
Children don't recognize bullying as bullying or feel embarrassed to speak up.
“For one family, their son initially believed the behaviour was simply a game”
What to do if bullied
Parents should start conversations without pressure and listen to their child.
“Start a conversation without putting them under pressure”
School and record keeping
Parents should contact school and keep records of incidents.
“Speak to their school and keep a record of incidents”
Cyberbullying
Parents should preserve evidence and report online bullying.
“If your child is experiencing cyberbullying, encourage them not to respond or retaliate”
Emotional support
Parents should seek mental health help if needed.
“If your child is experiencing persistent anxiety, low mood, school refusal or significant changes in their behaviour”
Rebuilding confidence
Parents help children maintain interests and self-worth.
“What are the qualities you really like in yourself?”
Key warning signs
Children show signs of bullying through behavior changes.
“An unusually angry child might be struggling to explain what's happening at school”
The big picture
Parents notice sudden anger, school refusal, appearance changes, and other signs when their child is bullied.
