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Cyberbullying: Before you start the conversation (6-10s)

Find out how you can start a conversation about cyberbullying with your young child.

A boy with a tablet frowns.

Getting ready to talk

A car with a messaging box above it

Think about when and where best to talk to them – in the car or a neutral place where they feel safe.

A thumbs up with a heart above it

Be open and encouraging to make them feel supported.

two check marks in a circle to the left of two straight lines

Jot down what you want to say to focus your mind, and make the conversation relevant to them.

Two messaging boxes above each other

Have a few bite sized conversations to give them time to process.

What you need to know

Number 13

Think carefully about allowing your child on social media as the minimum age on most networks is 13 years old.

Angry emoji face inside an analog watch

Cyberbullying can take place 24/7 and happens repeatedly on a range of apps, games and devices.

Crying emoji face with a messaging box above it

Younger children can confuse any nasty comment or opinion as ‘bullying’ so their understanding of bullying can be different to that of adults.

A smiling profile avatar with three stars under it

Bullying is a learnt behaviour – so it’s important to set a good example and regularly reinforce being a good digital citizen.

Created with support from

Kidscape - Help with bullying