Bullying affects nearly every child, whether they’re being targeted, witnessing it, or struggling with their own behavior toward others. For parents, caregivers, and educators, knowing how to help kids manage bullying can feel overwhelming. When trauma is part of a child’s story, these challenges can become even more complex.
The good news? With empathy, guidance, and healthy emotional expression, children can learn to manage conflict in ways that strengthen resilience, self-awareness, and connection.
How Trauma Shapes a Child’s Response to Bullying
When children experience trauma, their brains may stay in a constant state of alert. This affects how they think, feel, and respond in social situations. They might:
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Misread social cues (e.g., seeing a joke as a threat).
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Struggle to manage emotions during conflict.
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Find it hard to problem-solve calmly in the moment.
As a result, kids may react in two common ways:
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Aggressive behaviors, such as lashing out or trying to control others.
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Withdrawn behaviors, like shutting down or avoiding peers.
Recognizing these as stress responses, not “bad behavior,” is the first step to helping children feel safe and supported.
Supporting Both Sides: Kids Who Are Bullied and Those Who Bully
While our instinct is to protect children being bullied, those who use bullying behaviors also need compassion and structure. Often, they’re coping with unmet emotional needs or past hurts.
Adults can help by:
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Offering safety and validation to children who are targeted.
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Teaching accountability and repair to those engaging in bullying.
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Reinforcing the idea that every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued.
When we focus on empathy and guidance instead of punishment, we create opportunities for lasting growth and healing.
The Power of Emotional Regulation and Expression
When children lack tools to express emotions, feelings often show up as anger, defiance, or withdrawal. Encouraging healthy outlets helps them process and communicate what’s going on inside.
Try these simple, expressive strategies:
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Play – Games and imaginative play teach problem-solving and emotional awareness.
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Art – Drawing, painting, or sculpting allows children to express complex emotions safely.
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Storytelling – Reading or creating stories helps kids explore empathy and new perspectives.
These activities strengthen a child’s ability to self-regulate, reducing the likelihood of harmful behavior toward themselves or others.
Why “Just Ignore It” Isn’t Enough
Telling a child to “just ignore it” may unintentionally make them feel powerless or dismissed. Instead, try:
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Teaching assertive but respectful responses (“That’s not okay. Please stop.”)
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Role-playing ways to seek help from a trusted adult.
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Validating their feelings before problem-solving.
By modeling empathy and active listening, we show kids that they’re not alone—and that their emotions matter.
Actionable Tips for Parents and Caregivers
Creating emotionally safe environments at home and school can make a lasting difference. Here are some practical steps:
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Provide judgment-free spaces for kids to share their day.
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Model healthy conflict resolution in your own relationships.
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Teach the concept of repair—apologizing, making amends, and rebuilding trust.
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Praise children for expressing feelings safely and constructively.
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Partner with schools or community resources (like counseling or support groups) if concerns about bullying continue.
Where We Go from Here
Bullying and conflict are difficult but powerful opportunities for growth. When adults respond with empathy, teach healthy expression, and guide children through repair, we build the foundation for resilience, kindness, and emotional intelligence.
Every interaction becomes a chance to show children that relationships can be safe—and that their voice matters.