Wellbeing & Culture

Bullying No Way Week – 

How Families Can Help at Home

This week, we recognise “Bullying No Way: National Week of Action”, which provides an important opportunity for our school community to come together and talk about kindness, respect, inclusion and looking out for one another.

While these conversations are happening at school, families play an equally important role in helping children understand what bullying is, how their actions can affect others, and what they can do if they see or experience unkind behaviour.

At home, you can support your child by having simple, regular conversations about their friendships and experiences at school. Ask questions such as, “Who did you play with today?”, “Did you notice anyone who was left out?” or “Was there a time someone needed a friend today?” These conversations can help children feel comfortable talking about what is happening in their social world.

It is also valuable to talk with children about the difference between being an upstander and a bystander. Encourage them to include others, show kindness, speak up when it is safe to do so, and tell a trusted adult if they are worried about someone. Remind them that they don't have to solve a problem on their own.

Families can also help children develop empathy by talking about how different situations might make someone feel. Reading books, watching shows or discussing everyday experiences can provide great opportunities to ask, “How do you think they felt?” and “What could someone have done to help?”

Most importantly, let your child know that they can always come to you for help. If they experience or witness something that concerns them, listen calmly, reassure them that they have done the right thing by speaking up, and work with the school to support them.

Small conversations at home can make a big difference. By modelling kindness, respectful communication and inclusion in our own families, we can help our children build the skills and confidence they need to create a community where everyone feels safe, welcome and valued.

Together, we can make kindness and respect part of every day — at school, at home and everywhere in between.

Kelly Goodgame – On behalf of the Wellbeing and Culture Team