How do I stop older peers from teasing about underwear or bras? 

Parenting Perspective 

As children reach puberty, changes in their clothing, such as wearing bras or different undergarments, can attract teasing, especially from slightly older peers or siblings. Such comments can deeply embarrass a child and lead to shame surrounding normal growth. Parents can prevent and address this by setting clear boundaries about respect, reinforcing privacy, and building their child’s confidence through calm conversations. 

Set Clear Rules About Respect 

The process should begin at home. Explain firmly yet gently that it is never acceptable to joke about someone’s underwear, body, or clothing. You can say, ‘We do not talk or laugh about what someone wears underneath; it is private and deserves respect’. Ensure older siblings understand that teasing about such topics violates family values. This calm correction sets the tone for dignity. 

Protect Your Child From Public Embarrassment 

If the teasing happens at school or among friends, it is important to reassure your child privately. You might say, ‘There is nothing wrong with you; they were wrong to make fun of something so natural’. Avoid amplifying the situation by showing anger in front of others. Your quiet reassurance will restore their sense of control and safety. 

Build Confidence Through Knowledge 

Help your child understand why these clothing changes are necessary: for cleanliness, comfort, and maturity. When they know the purpose behind them, embarrassment can turn into understanding. You can explain, ‘This means your body is growing in a healthy way, and you are learning how to take care of it’. The more informed and prepared they are, the less they will be affected by the immaturity of others. 

Model Calm Responses 

Teach your child short, confident phrases they can use if someone teases them, such as, ‘That is not funny’, or simply walking away without reacting. Silence and composure often dissolve mockery more effectively than an argument. Practising these responses at home builds emotional strength. 

When you normalise the conversation around undergarments as a part of responsible growth, children learn to view their own maturity with pride, not shame. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that modesty and respect begin with the tongue. Mocking or exposing what is private dishonours both the speaker and the listener. Parents who guide their children with firmness and faith help them to protect their dignity through understanding, not fear. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujurat (49), Verse 12: 

‘O you who have believed, avoid much suspicion. Indeed, some suspicion is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it.’ 

This verse highlights the deep harm caused by violating another person’s privacy, even through words. It teaches that respect includes guarding one’s speech from gossip or mockery. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 2546, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Whoever exposes his brother’s faults, Allah will expose his faults, even if he is in the innermost part of his house.’ 

This Hadith serves as a powerful warning that making fun of private matters ultimately brings dishonour to the mocker, not the one being mocked. 

By addressing teasing calmly, teaching empathy, and grounding confidence in faith, parents help their children see that their dignity is not negotiable. A child who understands that covering and modesty are acts of worship will not be swayed by mockery. Instead, they will stand tall, knowing that Allah Almighty Himself honours those who protect what He has made private.