When You're Bullied
Understanding and Coping with Bullying in Elementary School
Some Practical Advice
Stay Calm and Confident – Bullies often target those they think they can get a reaction from. If possible, don't show them that they've upset you. Stand tall, make eye contact, and respond with confidence
Avoid the Bully When Possible – Try to stay in areas where there are teachers, friends, or trusted adults nearby. If the bully can't find an opportunity to pick on you, they may lose interest.
Speak Up – If you feel safe doing so, tell the bully to stop in a firm and clear voice. A simple "That's not okay. Stop." can sometimes throw them off.
Talk to a Trusted Adult—You should talk to your parents or guardians at home. Also, tell someone, such as your teacher, coach, or school counselor. You don't have to deal with this alone.
Surround Yourself with Good Friends – Having even one good friend can make a huge difference. Bullies are less likely to target you if they see you have support.
Document the Bullying—If the bullying is persistent, record what's happening (the dates, times, and what was said and done). This can be useful if you need to report it to school officials. Did you know that schools have many video cameras in all public areas? If you can write down where and when bullying happened, you can almost bet it's on video.
Take Care of Yourself – Bullying can hurt emotionally, so do things that bring you joy and remind you of your worth—hobbies, sports, music, or spending time with loved ones.
And We Also Have Some Godly Advice
Remember Your Worth – You are God's masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.) No bully can change the fact that you are loved, valuable, and made in God's image.
Pray for Strength and Wisdom – Ask God for guidance on how to handle the situation and for the courage to stand strong. "The Lord is my strength and my shield" (Psalm 28:7 The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped;
my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.).
Love, but Set Boundaries – Jesus teaches us to love our enemies (Luke 6:27“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you) but that doesn't mean allowing others to mistreat us. Stand firm in kindness, but don't let them walk over you.
Forgive, but Don't Forget – Forgiveness doesn't mean ignoring the problem; it means not letting bitterness control you. Ask God to help you forgive, but also take the right steps to protect yourself.
Trust That God is with You – Even when it feels lonely, you are never alone. "Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go" (Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.).
Being bullied is tough, but it does not define you. You have strength, worth, and a purpose far greater than this moment. Keep pressing forward, lean on God, and seek help when needed. You are not alone in this! Would you like help thinking through specific ways to handle your situation?