(From Tusla’s parenting24seven website – link below)

Bullying is the repeated abuse of a child by one or several other children or adults. Incidences of bullying need to be taken very seriously. Your child will need lots of support if they are being bullied or if they have been accused of bullying themselves.

1. Look out for signs that your child is being affected by bullying, for example:

• Being withdrawn
• Not sleeping
• Not eating
• Not wanting to play with their friends
• Being more ‘clingy’ than usual
• Overly anxious

2. Tell your child you will take action in relation to the bullying.

3. If the bullying is happening at school, talk to the teacher and ask to see the policies and protocols that apply to bullying.

4. Ensure that there is a plan put in place to manage the bullying situation. Keep in touch regularly with the school and keep your child informed.

See also: http://hse.ie/eng/services/publications/Children/Parents_who_listen_protect_English_.pdf

For more Key Messages check out https://www.tusla.ie/parenting-24-seven/6-12-years/