Reports have shown that 25% of children at some stage of their schooling years will get bullied.  As parents the thought of your child being bullied is horrifying but if we remember back to our school days we most likely knew of at least one bully and were lucky if we weren’t one of their victims.  What signs should you look out for if you think your child is being bullied? 

• It’s likely they will want to avoid going to school and will come up with plenty of excuses even if they previously enjoyed school
• They may ask you for money, new gadgets or things that they would never normally ask for.
• They may continually lose their things if the bully is taking things from them.
• Bruises, ripped clothing and sullen behaviour.
• They may suddenly become less academic and lose interest in the things they used to enjoy.
• They may be too scared to use the toilets at school so will be desperate to use the bathroom when you pick them up.
• Sleep problems, bad dreams and maybe even wanting to sleep near you.

Growing up as a victim of bullying can give the child low self esteem and depression so you need to spot the signs and give all the help and support possible.