9 Tips to Support a Child Experiencing Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is a growing problem that can deeply affect the lives of young people. As a parent, it’s important to understand how to support your child. This article offers 9 practical tips to help you respond to cyberbullying.   

Sad teenager looking down on mobile phone

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What is cyberbullying (online bullying)? 

Cyberbullying is a form of bullying that takes place through digital communication tools (social media, online games, instant messaging, discussion forums, etc.).

Like other forms of bullying, it involves a person or group deliberately trying to hurt, exclude, threaten, shame or cause distress to another person or group.

 

Here are some examples of cyberbullying :  
 

  • Threatening emails 

  • Sending or posting compromising photos or videos    

  • Sending hateful messages  

  • Extortion  

  • Doxing (sharing personal information without consent)  


A sense of anonymity is one of the biggest challenges of cyberbullying. Online, people who bully others may feel hidden behind their screens. This can give them the confidence to say or do things they would never dare to do in person. 

Cyberbullying now affects young people of all ages, including elementary school children, as they begin using online games and chat platforms earlier.

You can also explore our content on managing bullying in general. 

1. Recognize the signs of cyberbullying in your child

Cyberbullying can sometimes be hard to spot. However, certain changes in your child’s behavior may tip you off.

Signs related to digital device use
 

  • Your child logs in less often to their usual platforms or stops using them altogether

  • They change their online habits and schedules

  • They seem stressed when using the Internet or their phone

  • They appear sad or depressed after being online

  • They are receiving more messages than usual
     

Others signs to watch
 

  • Symptoms of anxiety or depression

  • Lowered self-esteem

  • Social withdrawal

  • A desire to stay home rather than go to school (or any other place)

  • A change in eating habits

  • Sleep problems

  • A decline in academic performance 

  • Suicidal thoughts

 

These signs do not necessarily mean that your child is being cyberbullied. They may also indicate other difficulties.

The important thing is to talk to them to better understand what they are going through and offer them the support they need.

2. Learn about the platforms your child uses  

Take an interest in the platforms your child uses. Understanding how they work can make it easier to step in if cyberbullying occurs.  

3. Start an open conversation with your child  

To find out whether your child may be experiencing cyberbullying, take time to talk with them. An open, caring conversation can help them feel safe and supported in sharing what they’re going through.

Here are some ways to approach the conversation :
 

  • Ask simple questions to find out how they’re doing 
  • Create a space where your child can speak freely, without fear of judgment 
  • Stay calm, even if what they share is difficult to hear 
  • Avoid blaming your child, even if things could have been handled differently 
  • Reassure your child that you are there to support and guide them 

4. Guide internet use with care

It may be tempting to block access to certain platforms, or even the internet altogether, to prevent cyberbullying. However, this can isolate your child from relationships that are important to them. 

Today, many social connections develop online. It’s important that your child can maintain supportive relationships, especially during difficult times.

A certain level of supervision can help. It provides guidance and may help prevent some situations. Take time to explain to your child why this supervision is in place. An open and collaborative conversation can help reduce the risk of cyberbullying. 

The Pause your screen platform also offers helpful resources on managing screen use.

Remember that building your child’s confidence and self-esteem is essential. Your role is to support and guide them through this process.    

5. Don’t respond to bullying messages  

If your child is experiencing cyberbullying, it is recommended not to respond to the messages. Take screenshots to keep evidence, then block the individual(s) involved to prevent further contact.  

 

Most online platforms also allow you to report a user or content. Reporting helps notify platform moderators that the behaviour is inappropriate.  

6. Adjust privacy and security settings

Review the privacy on your child’s online account. Supporting them in this process can help strengthen the security of their profiles. 

Take the opportunity to remind them not to accept contact requests from people they don’t know. 

Anxious teen looking at screen

7. Contact your child’s school  

Even if the bullying is happening online, it’s important to inform your child’s school. Schools are required to implement and follow anti-bullying and anti-violence plans whether incidents occur online or in person.  

 

8. Learn about legal options 

Some online behaviours may have legal consequences, such as :
 

  • Harassment

  • Threats to safety

  • Damage to reputation

  • Sharing intimate images without consent 

 

In some situations, it may be necessary to contact emergency services (9-1-1) or law enforcement. 

 

To learn more, you can consult resources provided by Éducaloi. 

9. Encourage your child to use free support resources  

Several free resources are available to support young people experiencing cyberbullying and their parents. For example:   
 

 

 

If you’re worried your child may be having suicidal thoughts, visit the I’m Worried about Someone with Suicidal Thoughts section.   

You can also reach the Québec Suicide Prevention Line at 1 866-APPELLE (277-3553). 

These services are confidential and available 24/7.