Is your child being bullied at school? Warning signs UAE parents should look out for

Bullying in UAE schools may not always result in physical injuries, making it difficult to detect. Children may exhibit behavioral changes such as becoming quieter, avoiding friends, or refusing to attend school. Educators warn that parents should be vigilant for these signs as Dubai implements new measures to protect pupils. Bullying can manifest as repeated name-calling, social exclusion, or hurtful messages on social media.

Surveys have shown that 73% of bullied students did not disclose the issue, while only 41% knew how to report it and 49% were unaware of their school's anti-bullying protocols.

Despite these challenges, schools and parents can collaborate to identify and address bullying. Signs that a child might be a victim include unexplained injuries, lost belongings, shifts in appetite, or declining academic performance. While these indicators do not definitively confirm bullying, they warrant a conversation with the child. Physical bullying is more visible, but other forms can be equally harmful and harder to identify.

Experts advise parents to avoid dismissing bullying among boys by attributing it to typical male behavior, and to recognize that girls can also experience emotional bullying. Parents should maintain an open dialogue with their children about their online interactions, as cyberbullying can occur outside of school hours. It is essential for parents to listen to their children, reassure them, and involve the school in addressing the issue.

Saving screenshots of online messages and keeping a record of concerns can aid the school's investigation. Regular follow-ups with teachers and maintaining open communication between parents and educators are crucial to ensuring that bullying does not persist unchecked.