As a former primary school teacher and now a personal life coach working with children and young people, I find myself increasingly concerned about the alarming rise of cyberbullying. I can only imagine the concerns parents must have. The digital world, while offering incredible opportunities, also presents new challenges that we must address with urgency and care.
Recent statistics paint a grim picture—more than half of teens have experienced some form of cyberbullying. Platforms like YouTube, Snapchat, TikTok, and Facebook are the most common places where this occurs. The scary part is that cyberbullying can begin in Primary School when pupils are in year 5/6, when they start having mobile phones. I have witnessed this firsthand during my teaching career.
The Real Impact of Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying is not just “harmless teasing” or “children being children.” Signs are often missed, or children feel that they are not taken seriously when, as adults, we may have this kind of response. The repercussions can be severe, long-lasting and result in trauma in the long run. Here are some key concerns I wish to highlight:
- Mental Health Risks on the Rise. Victims of cyberbullying are at a higher risk of experiencing anxiety, depression, and other stress-related disorders. If left unaddressed, these issues can result in long-term trauma that affects their self-esteem, academic performance, their relationships into adulthood and even their work life.
- Prevalence Among Adolescents Cyberbullying affects children of all ages, but the risks increase as they grow older. With social media becoming an integral part of their lives, they are more exposed to harmful interactions that can erode their confidence and emotional well-being.
- Underreporting is Alarmingly High. Many incidents go unreported due to fear, shame, or the belief that nothing can be done. Children may hesitate to speak up because they worry about getting into trouble or feel that adults won’t take them seriously or even understand their digital world.
It is up to us, as adults, to educate and equip ourselves with the knowledge and confidence to deal with these issues, so that we are better informed, more confident, and better prepared to support our children.
How Can We Combat Cyberbullying?
In the past, parents could more easily monitor and protect their children from threats, but today’s digital landscape has changed dramatically. With technology at their fingertips, young people are more connected than ever before—but also more vulnerable. We need a proactive approach that focuses on prevention and education.
Top Tips to Combat Cyberbullying:
- Foster Open Communication: Encourage children to talk about their online experiences without fear of judgment. This may take time, especially in challenging circumstances, but with consistency and a calm approach, trust can be built. Ask open-ended questions like:
- Have you seen anything online that made you uncomfortable?
- What do you do if someone sends you a mean message?
- How do you feel when you’re online?
- Educate, Educate, Educate on Digital Etiquette. Teach children about respectful online behaviour and the potential consequences of their actions. Many young people don’t realise how damaging a single comment can be. This means having regular conversations with them. Not just when something occurs. Help them to understand:
- The impact of their words on others
- The importance of kindness and empathy online
- How to set personal boundaries in digital spaces
- Implement Parental Controls with a Conversation. There are various tools available to help monitor and manage children’s online activities. However, instead of enforcing restrictions without explanation, involve your child in the process. Explain why these measures are in place, emphasising safety over control. By getting them directly involved in the approach, this will:
- Reduces resistance
- Strengthens trust
- Encourage responsible digital habits
“Behind every screen is a child who needs understanding, not judgment.”
A Collective Responsibility
Creating a safer digital environment is not just the responsibility of parents—it requires the involvement of educators, policymakers, and communities. Schools should integrate digital citizenship lessons, and tech companies must enforce stronger policies against online harassment.
If your child is struggling with cyberbullying, know that support is available. Seeking guidance from a professional can provide both you and your child with the tools to navigate this challenge effectively. As a life coach, I am here to offer insights and support tailored to your family’s needs.
For more insights and resources on cyberbullying, I have included some useful websites. If you need support, don’t hesitate to reach out—because sometimes, an external perspective can make all the difference.
Let’s work together to ensure that our children grow up in a world where technology empowers rather than harms them.
“Technology should connect us, not isolate us. Stand up against cyberbullying.”
“When the digital world feels heavy, a helping hand can make all the difference.”
Resources:
Parents seeking insights and resources to combat cyberbullying in the UK can access several reputable organisations dedicated to online safety and anti-bullying initiatives. Here are some valuable resources:
- UK Safer Internet Centre: Offers comprehensive advice for parents and carers on cyberbullying, including practical tips and guidance to support children experiencing online bullying. UK Safer Internet Centre+1GOV.UK Assets+1
- NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children): Provides guidance on helping children deal with bullying and cyberbullying, emphasising the importance of communication and support. NSPCC
- Internet Matters: Delivers resources and expert advice to help parents navigate the digital world, focusing on issues like cyberbullying and online safety tailored to children’s age groups.
- Anti-Bullying Alliance: A coalition of organisations and individuals working together to stop bullying. They offer advice for parents and carers on how to support children dealing with bullying. Anti-Bullying Alliance
- Childnet International: A UK charity that works to make the internet a safe place for children and young people, offering resources and guidance for parents on various online safety topics. Wikipedia
Engaging with these organisations can equip you as parents with the knowledge and tools necessary to support your children in navigating the online world safely.
Final Thoughts
Cyberbullying is a growing challenge that no parent, teacher, or community can afford to ignore. While technology continues to evolve, so too must our approach to supporting children in navigating the digital world. Open communication, education, and a collective responsibility are key to building safer online spaces.
We all have a role to play—whether it’s listening to a child’s concerns, teaching them digital kindness, or advocating for stronger protections. By taking action now, we can ensure that technology is used as a tool for empowerment, learning, and connection rather than harm.
“A simple conversation can be the lifeline a child needs.”
Call to Action
If you’re a parent, teacher, or carer, I encourage you to start the conversation today. Ask your child how they feel online, explore the resources available, and take small but consistent steps to build trust and resilience. If you or your child is struggling, don’t face it alone—reach out for support – Let’s Talk.
Together, we can stand against cyberbullying and create a brighter, safer digital future for all children.
Author: Zeenat Noorani – The Clarity Coach and Co-founder/Director of Let’s Talk Better C.I.C
