But there could be other reasons for these signs, so try to avoid jumping to conclusions. Ask yourself the following questions:
If there have not been any other changes and you suspect bullying may be the cause of the distress and anxiety, it is important to try and act as early as you can. Some children find it hard to talk about it, if they cannot talk about it ask them to write it down.
“Listen without getting angry or upset,”. Never dismiss their experience. Ask your child: “How do you want me to take this forward?” rather than just taking over so they don’t feel excluded from deciding what to do or end up even more stressed/worried than they were already.
Reassure your child it’s not their fault. Role-play bullying scenarios and practice your child’s responses. Talk about how our voices, bodies and faces send messages just the same way our words do.
All schools have an anti-bullying policy – ask to see it
For more advice and support visit bullying uk and Headscape.