How can I help my child talk about feelings if they are being bullied? 

Parenting Perspective 

Create a Safe Space to Talk 

When a child is being bullied, they often feel a mix of shame, fear, and confusion. They might hide what is happening because they worry you will be angry, feel embarrassed, or will make the situation worse. The first step is to create a safe space where your child knows they can speak openly without fear of blame or disbelief. Use gentle words: ‘You can always tell me anything. I am here to help you, not to get angry with you.’ 

Listen Fully and Talk Through Practical Steps 

Listen fully to what they share. Avoid saying, ‘Just ignore it’ or ‘You need to toughen up,’ as these phrases can make a child feel even more alone. Instead, name what is happening: ‘That sounds like bullying, and it is not your fault.’ Talk through practical steps they can take, such as staying close to friends, speaking to a trusted teacher, or calmly saying, ‘Stop it, that is not okay.’ Practise these small scripts at home so they feel prepared. Remind your child that telling an adult is not ‘snitching’; it is an act of self-protection. Praise their courage for speaking up. If the bullying continues, act firmly to make sure the school takes it seriously. Over time, these small actions help your child to feel that they are not powerless; they have your support and the right to feel safe. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us to protect the dignity of every person and to stand against injustice. Allah Almighty reminds us that He sees every wrong that is done, even if others try to hide it. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Aalai Imran (3), Verse 139: 

‘And do not weaken (seeing the strength of the opposition), and do not grieve (for those of passed away as martyrs); and ultimately you will prevail, if you are (true) believers. ‘

Share this with your child to remind them that they are never alone; Allah Almighty knows their pain and will help them through it. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2594a, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Gentleness is not in anything except that it beautifies it, and it is not removed from anything except that it makes it defective.‘

Remind your child that they can protect themselves and still use gentle words and actions. Teach them a simple Dua when they feel scared or hurt: ‘Ya Allah, keep me safe and strong.’ Over time, your calm support and spiritual reminders will show your child that they are worthy of respect, that bullying is never acceptable, and that Allah Almighty’s mercy and protection are always with them.