Parenting Perspective 

Tickling is often a source of laughter and connection, but it can quickly turn unpleasant if a child feels powerless or unable to stop it. Because laughter during tickling is often reflexive, children may appear to enjoy it even when they feel uncomfortable. To prevent misunderstandings, it is best to set a clear and gentle rule: “Stop means stop.” 

Set the Family Rule Together 

Frame the guideline in positive terms: “We only tickle while everyone is enjoying it. If anyone says stop, the tickling ends right away.” This can be reinforced with a simple hand signal or safe word for younger children who may struggle to speak mid-play. By involving children in creating the rule, they feel empowered and more likely to follow it. 

Practise Respecting Boundaries 

Guide your child to use their voice confidently by role-playing scenarios where they say “stop” and see the action pause immediately. Praise them for expressing their limits and praise others for respecting those limits. This not only keeps tickling fun but also teaches broader lessons of consent, empathy, and body respect. 

Model Consistency 

Children take cues from adults. If parents stop immediately when asked, it shows the child that their comfort matters. This consistency reassures them that they can trust their words to have weight, strengthening family trust while keeping play safe and enjoyable. Ultimately, the goal is to protect the joy of physical play while nurturing respect for boundaries. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us to value dignity, respect, and kindness in all our interactions, even in moments of play. Protecting a child’s comfort and honour reflects the prophetic example of compassion and fairness. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verses 11: 

‘Those of you who are believers, do not let a nation ridicule another nation, as perhaps it may be that they are better than them…’ 

This reminds us that even light-hearted actions must never cross into making another feel powerless or demeaned. Respecting boundaries ensures play remains honourable. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 41, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘A Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand the people are safe.’ 

This teaches us that our actions, even in play, must never cause harm or discomfort, but should bring safety and ease. 

By establishing a “stop means stop” tickle rule, parents embed the values of respect, gentleness, and empathy into everyday family life. This nurtures not only safe play but also a child’s sense of self-worth, showing them that their voice matters and their dignity is honoured in an Islamic home.