Steps

1. Listen without judgement: 'Tell me what happened' and believe them
2. Teach simple response scripts: 'That's not OK' or walking away confidently
3. Document incidents with dates, details, and any witnesses
4. Report to the school formally in writing and request their anti-bullying policy
5. Build their confidence outside school: clubs, activities where they feel competent

What you need

A log for incidents, school communication, scripts for your child

Why it works

Neurodivergent children are statistically more likely to be bullied and less likely to recognise it when it's happening. Teaching simple response scripts and documenting incidents gives both the child and the parent tools to address it effectively. Building confidence outside school protects self-worth from being defined by the bullying experience.

Age guidance

Relevant from age 5 onwards. Bullying patterns shift as children grow — physical in early years, social and relational in later years.

Real-world example

A parent documented two weeks of incidents with dates and details, then presented it to the head teacher in writing. The school had dismissed individual reports as 'just teasing,' but seeing the pattern on paper prompted immediate action.

Troubleshooting

• If the school doesn't act, escalate to the head teacher and then the governors
• Neurodivergent children are more likely to be bullied AND less likely to recognise it. Check in regularly
• If your child is also displaying bullying behaviour, look for the underlying unmet need