Eve Teasing in Schools: What Parents Need to Know

School is supposed to be a safe place for children to learn, grow, and build friendships. But for many girls, it can also be where they first experience eve teasing, unwanted comments, gestures, or harassment that make them feel uncomfortable.

As a parent, it’s essential to know what eve teasing looks like, how it affects children, and what you can do to help.

Eve teasing isn’t just whistling on the street, it can take many forms within school environments, including:

• Passing inappropriate comments about a girl’s appearance.

• Unwanted teasing or name-calling with a sexist undertone.

• Staring, following, or making a girl feel unsafe.

• Passing notes, messages, or social media texts that are suggestive or threatening.

• Touching, pushing, or brushing against someone intentionally.

These behaviours can start as early as middle school and escalate if not addressed.

Many girls don’t report eve teasing because they feel embarrassed, scared, or worry that no one will take them seriously. However, the impact can be profound:

• Loss of confidence and self-esteem.

• Fear of going to school or using specific spaces like corridors or buses.

• Anxiety, stress, and even depression.

• Difficulty concentrating on studies.

• Developing a sense of helplessness if no action is taken.

Your child may not openly tell you about eve teasing, so watch out for these signs:

• A sudden reluctance to go to school.

• Changes in mood, such as anxiety or sadness.

• Avoiding specific routes, classrooms, or school events.

• Becoming withdrawn or refusing to discuss their day.

• Complaints of stomach aches or headaches (often signs of stress).

If you notice these, start a conversation in a supportive and non-judgmental way.

Encourage your child to share their experiences by asking open-ended questions:

• “How do you feel at school?”

• “Has anyone ever made you feel uncomfortable or uneasy?”

• “Do you feel safe on the school bus, playground, or in class?”

Let them know:

Equip your child with strategies to handle eve teasing, such as:

• Using a firm voice to say, “Stop. That’s not okay.”

• Ignoring and walking away if the teasing is for attention.

• Reporting incidents to a teacher or school authority.

• Confiding in a trusted friend or sibling.

If the teasing escalates or continues, make sure they know it’s essential to seek adult intervention.

Schools have a responsibility to provide a safe environment for all students. If your child is experiencing eve teasing:

• Encourage them to report it to a teacher or school counsellor.

• If the issue persists, schedule a meeting with school authorities.

• Advocate for anti-harassment policies, awareness programs, or self-defence workshops.

• Stay connected with other parents to understand if it’s a widespread issue.

Schools that take proactive steps—like monitoring hallways, implementing strict policies, and educating students—help create a safer space for everyone.

One of the best ways to prevent eve teasing is through education. Schools should teach boys and girls about:

• Respecting personal boundaries.

• The impact of harassment.

• The importance of speaking up against inappropriate behaviour.

As a parent, you can advocate for these discussions to be part of the curriculum.

A confident child is less likely to feel powerless in such situations. Encourage:

• Assertive body language (standing tall, making eye contact).

• Speaking up when something feels wrong.

• Engaging in activities that boost self-esteem, like sports or debate clubs.

Eve teasing in schools is a real issue, but by staying informed and proactive, parents can help their children feel safe and supported. The key is open communication, awareness, and collaboration with schools to ensure that no child has to face harassment in their learning environment.