How can I help my child stop interrupting when others are speaking? 

Parenting Perspective 

Use Gentle Cues and Reminders 

Interrupting is often a sign of a child’s eagerness, not intentional rudeness. The first step is to gently explain why it is important to wait: ‘When we let someone finish speaking, it shows that we are respecting them.’ You can also use simple, non-verbal cues, like raising a hand, or teach them to place a hand on your arm to signal that they would like to speak next. This acknowledges their desire to contribute while teaching patience. 

Practise Turn-Taking at Home 

You can create fun activities at home that make practising turn-taking a natural habit. This could be a family story time where each person adds one sentence, or playing a simple board game. When you see your child waiting patiently for their turn, offer specific praise: ‘It was very respectful of you to listen until your sister had finished.’ This positive reinforcement is key to helping them internalise the value of listening. 

Value Respectful Conversation 

By combining gentle reminders with practice opportunities, you teach your child that respectful conversation makes their voice more valued, not less. This helps them learn that listening before speaking is a sign of maturity. 

Spiritual Insight 

Good Speech is Calm and Measured 

Islam strongly emphasises good manners (adab) in speech. The Quran advises believers to be moderate and respectful in how they talk, reminding us that calm and measured speech is a sign of dignity. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Luqman (31), Verse 19: 

‘“And be modest in your attitude and lower your voice (in dealing with people); as indeed, the harshest of all sounds, is the noise of the donkeys”.’ 

Be Thoughtful with Speech 

This prophetic teaching warns against repeating everything one hears, which encourages a habit of listening and reflecting before speaking. A person who is careful with their words is less likely to interrupt others carelessly. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, 11, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘It is enough of a lie for a man to speak of everything that he hears.’ 

Patience in Conversation 

When you teach your child that waiting patiently to speak is not just about being polite, but is also a reflection of good Islamic character, the lesson becomes much deeper. They learn that patience in conversation is a sign of humility and respect, helping them to develop strong communication skills that are rooted in their faith.