What Every Parent Should Know About Bullying Prevention
Bullying is something no parent wants their child to experience — but it’s more common than many people realise. From playground teasing to online harassment, bullying can deeply affect a child’s confidence, happiness, and even long-term wellbeing.
The good news is that there are practical steps parents can take to help prevent bullying and give children the skills to handle difficult situations with confidence.
Understanding Bullying
Bullying isn’t just “kids being kids.” It’s repeated behaviour intended to hurt, intimidate, or control another child. It can take many forms:
• Physical bullying: hitting, pushing, or damaging belongings.
• Verbal bullying: name-calling, teasing, or threats.
• Social bullying: excluding someone or spreading rumours.
• Cyberbullying: using phones, apps, or social media to cause harm.
Recognising these signs early is the first step in helping your child.
How Parents Can Help Prevent Bullying
1. Keep Communication Open
Encourage your child to talk about their day — the good and the bad. When children feel listened to, they’re more likely to share if something’s wrong.
2. Teach Confidence and Body Language
Bullies often target children who seem unsure of themselves. Teaching your child to stand tall, make eye contact, and speak clearly can make a big difference in how they’re perceived.
3. Encourage Positive Friendships
Children with strong friendship groups are less likely to be bullied. Support your child in building healthy relationships, both in and outside school.
4. Set Boundaries Around Technology
With cyberbullying on the rise, teaching children how to use devices responsibly is vital. Encourage open conversations about online behaviour and check privacy settings together.
5. Enrol in Activities That Build Confidence
After-school activities, especially martial arts, can be powerful for bullying prevention.
At Absolute Martial Arts, children learn:
• Self-confidence: standing tall and believing in themselves.
• Respect: treating others with kindness.
• Self-defence: the ability to protect themselves if absolutely necessary.
• Resilience: bouncing back when faced with challenges.
These skills don’t just stop bullying — they help children thrive in every area of life.
What If Your Child Is Being Bullied?
If you discover your child is experiencing bullying:
• Stay calm and listen without judgment.
• Reassure them it’s not their fault.
• Work with their school to address the issue.
• Give them tools and strategies to respond calmly and assertively.
Final Thoughts
Bullying prevention isn’t about teaching children to fight back — it’s about giving them the confidence, resilience, and support to stand tall and know their worth. With guidance at home and positive activities outside school, every child can grow up feeling safe and strong.
If you’d like to see how martial arts can help your child build confidence and resilience against bullying, we’d love to invite you for a free trial at Absolute Martial Arts.
👉 Book Your Child’s Free Trial Class Today