Parenting Perspective 

When a child is teased for playing with simple toys, such as a basic doll or a homemade game, it can leave emotional scars that last long after the moment has passed. Play is a child’s natural way of expressing joy and creativity. When peers mock them for their toys, it is not just an attack on their possessions but on their very sense of self. 

The Emotional Hurt and Shame 

Children may feel acutely embarrassed, as if the simplicity of their toys somehow defines their worth. This shame can silence their excitement about playing and make them hesitant to share their belongings or invite friends to join them. 

The Risk of Withdrawal and Resentment 

This kind of teasing can lead to negative reactions. 

• Some children may simply stop bringing their toys to school or avoid playtime altogether to escape the mockery. 

• Others might internalise a sense of resentment, thinking less of themselves and even of their parents for not providing ‘better’ toys. 

Developing a Distorted View of Play 

Persistent teasing can make a child believe that fun is dependent on expensive, trendy toys rather than on creativity, imagination, or companionship. This damaging mindset shifts the meaning of play from a source of joy to a way of demonstrating social status. 

How to Help a Child Heal 

Parents can support their child through this painful experience with gentle reassurance. 

• Listen with empathy and validate their feelings of hurt without judgment. 

• Reinforce the idea that toys are just tools, and that creativity matters far more than cost. 

• Highlight the beauty and value of simplicity, perhaps by sharing stories of how older generations enjoyed modest games. 

• Celebrate your child’s own creativity, praising them for their ability to make fun out of simple things so they can feel proud of themselves again. 

With this guidance, parents can protect their child’s self-esteem and help them rebuild their confidence. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches the importance of humility and strongly condemns the act of mocking others for their worldly possessions. A child’s toy, no matter how simple, is a blessing from Allah and should never be the subject of ridicule. 

The Quran’s Condemnation of Mockery 

Allah Almighty explicitly forbids believers from ridiculing one another, as a person’s true honour is known only to Him. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 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 verse reminds us that mocking others is a sin, and the one who is ridiculed may be far more honoured in the sight of Allah. 

The Prophetic Teaching on Protecting Others 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught that a core part of faith is to ensure that others are safe from the harm of one’s words and actions. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 2627, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand the people are safe, and the believer is the one people trust with their lives and wealth.’ 

This hadith teaches that a true believer never causes harm through mockery, reminding children that kindness and safety are more important than any possession. 

By teaching children that their worth is not tied to expensive toys but to their gratitude and good character, parents can help turn a hurtful experience into a source of strength. This grounds the child in their own dignity, helping them to rise above mockery and cherish the blessings Allah has given them with contentment and pride.