Unexplained stomach aches and secretive online behaviour: Hidden signs of bullying

Parents across London are being urged to look out for the less obvious signs of bullying, including unexplained stomach aches, changes in sleeping habits and secretive online behaviour, as Anti-Bullying Week approaches.

With research highlighted by education experts suggesting that 40% of young people in the UK have experienced bullying in the past year, recognising the warning signs could be crucial in helping children feel safe and supported.

From playground disagreements to harmful messages on social media, bullying can take many forms, and children do not always feel comfortable telling their parents when something is wrong.

As Anti-Bullying Week takes place from November 16 to 20, under the theme Power for Good, education provider Explore Learning is encouraging parents and carers to pay closer attention to changes in their children's behaviour.

Charlotte Gater, Head of Education at Explore Learning, said:

"With 21% of children who experience daily bullying resorting to truancy, it's clear that the impact extends far beyond the playground, affecting education and overall wellbeing.

"Anti-Bullying Week serves as a reminder that we all have a responsibility to foster respect and work towards creating safer, more compassionate environments for our children."

The hidden warning signs your child could be experiencing bullying

According to Explore Learning, some of the earliest signs of bullying may be mistaken for everyday childhood worries or typical changes in behaviour.

Children who are being bullied may frequently complain of headaches or stomach aches, particularly before school, without an obvious explanation.

They may also become reluctant to attend school, withdraw from activities they previously enjoyed or appear unusually anxious about using their mobile phone or computer.

Changes in eating and sleeping habits can also be warning signs, alongside unexplained damage to school belongings, missing possessions or repeated requests for extra money.

Parents should also look out for children becoming quieter, more withdrawn or upset after spending time with particular friendship groups.

However, experts stress that these symptoms do not automatically mean a child is being bullied and could have other explanations. Persistent physical symptoms should also be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Three signs of cyberbullying parents shouldn't ignore

With children increasingly using smartphones, gaming platforms and social media to communicate, bullying is no longer confined to the school playground.

Explore Learning has identified three online warning signs that parents should be particularly aware of:

• Secretive online behaviour: Children may quickly close applications, switch tabs or hide their screens when an adult enters the room.

• Emotional distress after using devices: A child may appear anxious, upset or angry after receiving messages or spending time on social media.

• Withdrawal from online activities: Children may suddenly stop using games, messaging apps or online communities they previously enjoyed.

Although children naturally become more protective of their privacy as they grow older, a sudden change in their online habits could be a reason to start a gentle conversation.

What if your child is bullying someone else?

Experts are also encouraging parents to recognise signs that their own child could be displaying bullying behaviour towards others.

These can include increasingly aggressive language, difficulty accepting responsibility for their actions and a highly competitive attitude that makes losing particularly difficult.

Other potential warning signs include coming home with unexplained money or belongings, becoming disruptive at school or experiencing a sudden decline in academic performance.

Explore Learning advises parents to address concerning behaviour calmly rather than immediately becoming confrontational.

Understanding why a child is behaving unkindly, setting clear boundaries and helping them develop empathy can all play an important role in preventing further incidents.

Four ways parents can help children experiencing bullying

Charlotte Gater has shared four practical steps parents and carers can take to support children who may be struggling.

1. Create a safe space for conversation

Children may be reluctant to speak about bullying because they are frightened of making things worse or being accused of telling tales.

Parents should encourage regular, open conversations without judgement, reassuring children that asking for help is a sign of strength rather than weakness.

Even a simple conversation about their school day or friendships can help build the trust needed for a child to share something more serious.

2. Teach children how to stay safe online

Parents should discuss online safety regularly, including how to block and report abusive messages, manage privacy settings and avoid sharing personal information.

Taking an interest in the games, apps and social media platforms children use can also help parents understand their online experiences.

3. Build confidence and resilience

Encouraging children to enjoy hobbies, sports, creative activities and other interests outside school can help strengthen their confidence.

Parents can also model positive self-talk and encourage children to recognise their own strengths.

However, building resilience should never mean expecting a child to deal with bullying alone.

4. Address bullying behaviour early

If a child is bullying others, experts recommend having a calm, non-judgemental conversation to understand what may be behind their behaviour.

Role-playing exercises, discussions about kindness and volunteering activities can all help develop empathy.

Parents should also establish clear expectations around acceptable behaviour and work with schools to prevent bullying from continuing.

When should parents speak to their child's school?

If parents suspect their child is experiencing bullying, they should contact their teacher or the school's safeguarding or pastoral team.

Keeping a record of incidents, including dates, messages and screenshots of online abuse, can help schools investigate concerns and take appropriate action.

Parents should also continue reassuring their children that they are being listened to and that they do not have to face the situation alone.

Charlotte added:

"It's vital that we equip our children with the tools to navigate challenging social situations, both online and offline.

"By fostering open communication and teaching resilience, we can help build a generation of young people who choose respect in all their interactions."

Anti-Bullying Week 2026 runs from Monday, November 16, to Friday, November 20, with this year's official theme, Break the Silence, encouraging children and adults to speak up, listen and take action against bullying.

For more advice and resources, visit Explore Learning's guide to dealing with cyberbullying.