Bullying is a pervasive problem that continues to affect children of all ages. According to the initiative StopBullying.gov, about 20 percent of students between the ages of 12 and 18 experience bullying. Bullying happens most often during the middle school years and frequently will not be reported by the targeted children.

Kids often feel embarrassed, fearful, or hopeless about speaking up about bullying. That can compromise parents' ability to identify when a child is being bullied. Kids also can be bullied when they would traditionally have been safe, as the rise of digital connectivity means bullying is no longer confined to the schoolyard; cyberbullying allows harassment to follow kids into their homes. Caregivers and parents can look for these subtle indicators that bullying is taking place.

· Physical symptoms: StopBullying.gov notes that unexplained physical indicators often are the most direct red flags that a child is being bullied. Bullied children frequently experience cuts, bruises, or scratches that are unexplained. Complaints of frequent headaches, stomach aches, or feeling sick, especially on school mornings, can also indicate children are being bullied.

· Missing or damaged items: Bullied children may return home from school with damaged or lost belongings, or missing school supplies. If a child is especially hungry when returning home from school, that could indicate that lunch money or the lunch itself was stolen.

· Emotional changes: Drastic changes in mood and daily routines may signal bullying distress. Many once outgoing children will become withdrawn or clingy if a bully is affecting them. Outbursts or defensive behavior can also occur.

· Loss of interest: Self-esteem wanes when a child is being bullied, so the child may step back from sports or other activities.

· Avoidance of technology: A child who is being cyberbullied may begin to eschew using a phone, tablet, or computer.

There is no single sign that a child is being bullied, but a pattern of subtle changes often means something is awry. A non-judgmental and supportive conversation can help kids feel supported and safe.