How parents and carers can support children through bullying

At Peer Support, we believe every child has unique strengths and the capacity to thrive when supported by positive relationships and a connected community. Strong friendships, empathy, and a sense of belonging help children navigate life’s challenges—including bullying—while building confidence and resilience.

While one in four Australian children will experience bullying at some point during their school years, research shows that supportive relationships and proactive guidance from parents and schools can make a real difference. Recent national attention, including the Federal Government’s ‘rapid review’ of school anti-bullying approaches, highlights the importance of working together with families, schools, and communities to foster safe and supportive environments for all students.

As a parent, you play a vital role in recognising and nurturing your child’s strengths, helping them build the skills and relationships needed to flourish at school and beyond.

Recognising your child’s resilience

Your child’s natural ability to cope with challenges can grow stronger with your support. Children often turn to you first, showing the trust and strong bond you share. Here’s how to nurture their resilience:

• Identifying strengths: Observe how your child handles difficult situations. Are they creative problem-solvers? Do they stand up for what’s right? These qualities reveal resilience.
• Noticing behavioural changes: Pay attention to shifts in mood, confidence, or daily habits like eating and sleeping. These can signal when your child needs extra support and offer opportunities to connect.
• Trusting your instincts: You know your child best. If something feels off, gently explore it and offer a listening ear.

Building open communication

Creating a safe and supportive space helps your child feel comfortable sharing their experiences. Here’s how you can encourage open conversations:

• Create a safe space: Show genuine interest in your child’s online activities, games, and interests. Ask open-ended questions to encourage honest conversations without judgment.
• Listen and validate: When your child shares their feelings, focus on listening rather than immediately solving the problem. Let them know their emotions are valid and that you’re there to support them.
• Empower your child: Encourage your child to take an active role in managing the situation. Ask how they want to be supported and help them recognise their own strengths and resources.

Understanding school-wide initiatives

Knowing how schools address bullying can help you support your child, working collaboratively with educators. Many schools use comprehensive approaches as:

• Student education: Teaching what bullying is, how to respond as a bystander, and the importance of being an upstander.
• Clear policies: Implementing guidelines and training teachers to recognise early ‘gateway behaviours’ that can escalate into bullying.
• Parental engagement: Providing parents with resources and information to support their children and spot warning signs.
• Program partnerships: Collaborating with wellbeing providers like the Peer Support Program to build connected, supportive school communities.

Building resilience

Helping your child develop skills to manage social challenges and stress can make a big difference. Try these strategies:

• Develop assertiveness: Practice role-playing scenarios to help your child confidently express their needs and set boundaries.
• Encourage friendships: Support your child in forming connections with peers who share their interests and values, as strong friendships can protect against bullying.
• Focus on strengths and interests: Encourage activities your child enjoys and excels at to boost confidence and self-esteem.
• Teach coping strategies: Introduce healthy ways to manage stress and emotions, such as exercise, mindfulness, or creative expression.
• Stay calm and supportive: When your child tells you about bullying, remain calm and reassuring. Let them know that you believe them and that you will work together to find a solution.

Creating a safe and supportive school community takes a whole-school approach to wellbeing. By working together – parents, students, and schools – we can create environments where all children feel valued and respected. Peer Support is proud to partner with schools in this important work, empowering students to build positive relationships and create a positive, connected and flourishing school culture.