DD has recently started secondary school and is struggling to make friends. She is lacking in confidence and finds it hard to speak up. Her closest friends from primary have unfortunately gone to another school, leaving DD feeling isolated.
Last week, DD mentioned that another girl was unkind to her whilst they were changing for PE, making fun of her appearance. DD knew this girl from primary, knew that she can be rather a bully, and completely ignored her. However, the same thing happened again during PE. The other girl also physically pushed DD out of the way, and tried to encourage other girls to join in saying unkind things. DD was immensely relieved that other girls didn't join in, and simply got on with their work.
What should I do to resolve the situation? DD is finding the transition to secondary difficult enough and simply will not countenance speaking to her tutor herself. I would like DD to speak to this girl,or failing that to tell a teacher, but that is a step too far.
DD is generally anxious, tearful and tired I would say. She has been targeted by bullies in the past, but a quick word with the primary teachers was enough to nip it in the bud. I don't want to over react, but I am worried and hate to see DD unhappy. Sometimes she tells me about spending lunch and breaks on her own, and other times she mentions chatting to other kids and seems enthused about her new lessons. I don't know how much I should step back and how involved I should be in helping her sort it. Any thoughts or advice welcome. Thank you.