How to Prepare a Child to Speak Respectfully to Teachers 

Parenting Perspective 

Speaking respectfully to teachers is a skill that children learn and develop at home. Preparing them for this involves teaching not only the right words but also the appropriate tone, posture, and overall attitude. Respect for teachers helps to create stronger learning relationships and establishes a foundation for good manners outside of the home. 

Practise Respectful Phrases 

Use role-playing to practise common classroom situations, such as asking for help or responding to correction. Encourage your child to use polite phrases like ‘Excuse me,’ ‘Please could you explain that again?’ or ‘I understand, thank you.’ Practising in a safe setting builds their confidence and helps to make these phrases a habit. 

Model Respect in Daily Life 

Children will often mirror how they see adults speak to figures of authority. When you show courtesy to shopkeepers, elders, or neighbours, you are indirectly teaching them how to interact with their teachers. 

Address Tone and Body Language 

Explain to your child that respect is not only conveyed through words. Sitting attentively, maintaining eye contact, and avoiding sighs or dismissive gestures all communicate humility. A reminder such as, “Even if you do not agree, show calmness in your voice and body,” will help them prepare for a variety of classroom situations. 

By preparing your child in these ways, you ensure that respect for their teachers becomes second nature, strengthening both their manners and their academic relationships. 

Spiritual Insight 

Respect for those in authority, particularly teachers and scholars, is a core principle in Islam. This respect is an essential part of a believer’s character and is directly linked to their faith. 

Guidance from the noble Quran 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Nisa (4), Verse 59: 

‘O you who are Believers, obey Allah Almighty and obey His Messenger (Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) and those who have authority amongst you…’ 

This verse reminds us that showing respect to those in positions of guidance, such as teachers, is an act of obedience and a part of our faith. 

Teachings of the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 1919, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘He is not of us who does not respect our elders, have mercy on our young, and know the rights of our scholars.’ 

This Hadith teaches us that teachers and scholars hold an honoured place in Islam and deserve our utmost respect in both speech and conduct. 

By preparing your child to speak respectfully to their teachers, you are aligning their daily behaviour with the values of Islam. They will learn that respect is not just about having good manners but is also an act of obedience to Allah Almighty, which will nurture their character and their learning.