Families For Life | Cyberbullying: What It Is and How to Avoid It

When Your Child Is Being Cyberbullied: What Parents Need to Know

Cyberbullying — using digital devices to harass, threaten, or humiliate someone — is increasingly common among children, and it can happen to any kid, even yours. Unlike playground bullying, it follows children home, into their bedrooms, and onto the screens they use for homework and play. For children who are just beginning to navigate online spaces, the impact can feel overwhelming.

Recognising the signs

Children often don't tell adults when they're being cyberbullied, out of shame, fear, or worry that their devices will be taken away. Watch for changes in mood after screen time, reluctance to go to school, withdrawal from friends, or unusual secrecy around their devices. These can all be quiet signals that something is wrong.

What to do when your child tells you

The most important thing you can do is stay calm and listen without judgement. Resist the urge to immediately take away their phone or tablet — this can feel like a punishment to your child and may discourage them from coming to you again. Acknowledge their feelings, let them know it's not their fault, and thank them for trusting you with it.

Taking action

Once your child feels heard, work together on next steps. Document the bullying by taking screenshots before blocking or deleting anything. Report the behaviour on the relevant platform, and if the bullying involves a classmate, inform the school. In serious cases — especially where threats are made — don't hesitate to contact the police.

Building resilience for the long run

Keep the lines of communication open by checking in regularly, not just during a crisis. Help your child understand what healthy online interactions look like, and remind them that they can always come to you. A child who feels safe talking to their parents is far better equipped to handle whatever they encounter online.

For more information on how to support your child if they are being cyberbullied, visit the link below:
Parenting For Wellness | Cyberbullying and ways to support your child if they are a victim