This free parent guide helps caregivers decide how to respond when a child has friendship problems. Some situations call mainly for listening, some for coaching a specific social response, and some require school involvement because there is repeated harm, a power imbalance, exclusion, harassment or a safety concern.
General parent-support information. It does not replace individualized medical, mental-health, safeguarding or emergency support.
Is there a power imbalance or repeated targeting?
What does my child want from me right now: listening, ideas or action?
Is this something the child can reasonably solve without adult protection?
No. Many ordinary disagreements can be supported without formal school involvement. Repeated harm, bullying, harassment, coercion or safety concerns are different and may require adult action.
Look at repetition, power imbalance, intent and impact rather than relying on one label. Schools may also have their own definitions and procedures.
Take the child’s concerns seriously, but adults still have responsibility for safety. Explain what you plan to share, involve the child where possible, and use the minimum necessary information.
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