What to Do If Your Child Is Cyberbullied

First steps for parents: listen, preserve evidence, report safely, involve school when appropriate, and avoid escalation.

When a child is cyberbullied, the first adult response shapes whether they keep talking. Start by slowing the situation down. Thank them for telling you, ask what they need right now, and avoid grabbing the phone in a way that feels like another punishment.

Do not retaliate publicly. Preserve evidence with screenshots, URLs, usernames, dates, and context. Then decide where the response belongs: platform report, school contact, parent-to-parent conversation, Netsafe support, or emergency services if there is immediate danger.

The child needs two plans: an emotional plan for the next 24 hours and a practical plan for reporting, blocking, documenting, and restoring safe routines.

Parent Checklist

Ask whether your child feels physically safe right now.
Screenshot messages, profiles, URLs, timestamps, and any threats before blocking.
Use platform reporting tools and school channels when classmates are involved.
Avoid public retaliation or pile-ons.
Contact local support services or emergency services if there is immediate risk of harm.

What to Say

I am glad you told me. You are not in trouble for being targeted.

We are going to save what happened, stop more contact where we can, and choose the next step calmly.

You do not have to handle this alone tonight.

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