Bullying at school—whether it involves repeated teasing, exclusion, insults, inappropriate gestures, or humiliation—is a reality that affects many children. It is difficult for parents to accept that their child may be a victim or witness to such situations. We often feel helpless: should we intervene? How can we react without making things worse?

Here are some guidelines to help you support your child with kindness, restore their confidence, and help them protect themselves.

1. Create a climate of trust and listening

First and foremost, children need to feel that they can confide in you without fear of being judged or misunderstood. Encourage them to talk freely about their day, their friends, and how they feel. Use open-ended questions such as, “How was your day?” and “What was the best and worst part of your day?” Listen without minimizing. Avoid phrases such as “It’s not that bad” or “You should stand up for yourself.” Instead, say: “I believe you,” “What you’re going through isn’t normal,” “Let’s find a solution together.” Reassure them: what they are going through is not their fault, and they are not alone. Creating this atmosphere of listening is essential for your child to feel comfortable talking, expressing their emotions, and understanding that they can be heard without fear or shame.

1. Recognizing warning signs

Not all children talk openly about what they are going through. There are certain signs you should look out for:
*Repeated physical complaints (stomach aches, headaches, sleep problems) with no clear medical cause.
*Refusal to go to school or fear of group activities.
* Mood swings (withdrawal, sadness, irritability, anger).
* Loss of interest in games, friends, or learning.

These behaviors do not always indicate harassment, but they often reflect discomfort. The earlier they are identified, the more effective the support will be.

1. Take concrete and constructive action

Once you have spoken up, it is important to act calmly and methodically. Write down the facts: dates, places, people involved, nature of the words or actions. These details will help you understand the situation and communicate with the school. Contact the school: inform the teacher, the administration, or the harassment officer. The goal is not to accuse, but to work together to find a solution that will protect your child. Boost your child’s confidence: praise their achievements, encourage their passions, suggest activities where they feel competent and recognized. Teach them to respond assertively: say “Stop, I don’t like that” in a firm voice, walk away, find an adult. These simple actions will give them back control over the situation.

1. Support without overprotecting

It’s a delicate balance: you need to protect your child while also teaching them how to respond on their own. Explain that you are there for them, but that they can also take action themselves: ask an adult for help, seek out a supportive friend, avoid certain situations, etc. At home, provide them with a safe space where they can relax, confide in you, and regain their self-confidence. Quiet moments spent together (reading, cooking, going for walks) can help them rebuild.

1. Teaching respect and empathy

Preventing bullying also requires daily education. Talk about mutual respect: what is an acceptable joke and what is not. Encourage empathy: “How do you think the other person feels?” Promote kindness: praise acts of helpfulness and respectful behavior. Children who understand the difference between mockery and good-natured humor, who learn to say no and listen to others, are better equipped to live in a group.

1. Seek professional help if necessary.

If the situation persists or worsens, or if your child shows signs of distress (sleep disturbances, anxiety, withdrawal, loss of appetite), do not hesitate to consult a psychologist or child specialist. Outside support often helps children express what they are going through in different ways and regain confidence.

1. In summary

External support often enables children to express what they are going through in different ways and regain confidence.
– Listen without judging.
– Work together with the school.
– Build confidence and independence.
– Promote empathy and respect.

Votre rôle de parent est essentiel : votre regard bienveillant, vos mots et votre présence rassurante sont de véritables leviers pour que votre enfant retrouve sécurité et estime de soi. Ensemble, famille et école peuvent faire beaucoup pour que chaque enfant grandisse dans un climat d’écoute, de respect et de sérénité.