What should I say when my child says, ‘Nobody likes me’? 

Parenting Perspective 

Listen and Validate Their Feelings 

Hearing your child say, ‘Nobody likes me,’ can be heartbreaking. Children often say this after a single bad day or an argument with friends. Even if it is not entirely true, their feelings are real in that moment and deserve to be heard. Start by staying calm and resisting the urge to dismiss what they feel. Avoid saying, ‘That is not true, of course everyone likes you,’ as this can make them feel misunderstood. Instead, gently ask, ‘What happened today that made you feel this way?’ Give them time to share without rushing them. 

Help Them See the Bigger Picture 

Once they have spoken, help them to see the bigger picture. You might say, ‘It sounds like you felt very left out today, and that is a sad feeling. But does that mean everyone is unkind to you all the time?’ Use real examples of good moments with friends or family. This helps your child to remember that feelings come and go and do not always reflect the whole truth. You can role-play ways they could handle similar situations next time. If your child struggles with shyness or conflicts, practise small phrases they could use to join in games or to ask someone to talk. Remind them that being a good friend themselves is the best way to build strong friendships. Most of all, let them know that you always like and love them unconditionally. 

Spiritual Insight 

Our faith teaches us that even when we feel alone, we are never truly without love and care. Allah Almighty knows every heart and every sadness we hold. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Duha (93), Verse 3: 

‘Your Sustainer had never left (communication with) you, nor can ever this (relationship) be stale.‘

This comforting verse reminds us that Allah Almighty’s love is constant, even when people disappoint us or leave us out. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2594a, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘Gentleness is not in anything except that it beautifies it, and it is not removed from anything except that it makes it defective. ‘

When your child feels rejected, your gentle words and listening heart show them the kindness that Allah Almighty loves. Encourage your child to make a simple Dua when they feel lonely, such as, ‘Ya Allah, bring me good friends and keep my heart strong.’ By reminding them that their worth is not measured by who likes them today but by the mercy of Allah Almighty, you help them to build resilience, hope, and a calm heart even in moments of loneliness.