Standing Strong: Understanding and Preventing Bullying in the Homeschooling Community

Bullying is often associated with the traditional school environment, but the reality is that it can occur anywhere — even within homeschooling circles. Whether it happens during co-op meetups, extracurricular activities, online communities, or among siblings, bullying is a serious issue that shouldn't be overlooked.

What Does Bullying Look Like for Home Educated Children?

In home education settings, bullying may take on different forms:

• Exclusion from group activities at co-ops or local meet-ups

• Online harassment in virtual learning platforms or homeschool forums

• Verbal or emotional manipulation within peer groups or by adults

• Sibling bullying, which is often minimised as "just sibling rivalry"

  
  

Recognising bullying is the first step to addressing it. It’s not always overt — it might come in the form of sarcasm, backhanded comments, or persistent belittling.

Why It’s Important to Talk About Bullying in Homeschooling

Many parents choose home education to provide a safe, nurturing environment. That’s why bullying in this context can be particularly distressing — it feels like a betrayal of the very reason for homeschooling. But no setting is immune. Avoiding the topic doesn’t protect our children; acknowledging it does.

Signs Your Child Might Be Experiencing Bullying

Even confident, well-adjusted children can struggle to talk about being bullied. Watch for signs such as:

• Sudden reluctance to attend a group or activity they once enjoyed

• Mood swings, anxiety, or withdrawal

• Changes in eating or sleeping habits

• Drop in self-esteem or negative self-talk

Open, non-judgemental conversations are crucial. Sometimes it helps to ask open-ended questions like, “How did you feel about that group today?” or “Did anything make you uncomfortable?”

Preventing and Addressing Bullying

Here are some steps homeschool parents can take:

1. Foster empathy and kindness at homeEncourage open discussions about emotions and model respectful behaviour.

2. Supervise social interactions when possibleEspecially in younger children or new groups, a watchful eye can help prevent harmful dynamics from forming.

3. Create safe spaces online and offlineWhether it’s a WhatsApp group or a science club, ensure there are clear boundaries and adult oversight.

4. Empower your child with assertiveness toolsRoleplay scenarios, teach them to speak up, and reassure them that it’s okay to walk away.

5. Engage with the wider homeschool communityIf bullying arises within a group, speak directly to organisers or other parents. Collaboration is key.

6. Take sibling conflict seriouslyRegular check-ins, conflict resolution training, and clear rules can help manage issues at home.

   
   

Remember: You’re Not Alone

One of the strengths of homeschooling is its flexibility — if a group or environment isn’t healthy, you can step back and find alternatives. Don’t be afraid to prioritise your child’s wellbeing over social obligations.

Bullying can thrive in silence. Let’s work together as a community to create spaces where all children feel valued, heard, and safe.