If your son is being bullied or you think they might be, here are some tips on how to talk to them and prevent further bullying.

• If your child is being bullied, don’t panic. Explain to your child that the bullying is not their fault and together you will sort this out.
• Bullying is never acceptable; and should always be taken seriously. It is never your son’s fault if they’ve been bullied.
• Try and establish the facts. It can be helpful to keep a diary of events. If the bullying is online, save or copy images and text.
• Find out what your son wants to happen. Help to identify steps you can take; and the skills they have to help sort out the situation. Make sure you always keep them informed about any actions you decide to take.
• You may be tempted to tell your son to retaliate but this can have unpredictable results. Your son might get into trouble or get even more hurt. Rather – role play non-violent ways they can respond to children that are bullying them (e.g. “I don’t like it when you say that to me / do that to me. Stop.”); show them how to block or unfriend people if the bullying is online and help them identify other friends or adults that can support them.
• Encourage your son to get involved in activities that build their confidence and esteem, and help them to form friendships outside of school (or wherever the bullying is taking place)