How do I deal with older kids mocking younger ones when they win too easily? 

Parenting Perspective 

Make Games a Safe Space 

When an older child mocks a younger sibling for being ‘too easy to beat,’ it can damage their bond. The parent’s role is to ensure that games are a safe and respectful space for all ages. It is important to step in immediately when mocking occurs and calmly explain, ‘In our family, we do not make fun of others just because they are still learning.’ This sets a clear boundary that respect is more important than skill. 

Balance the Playing Field 

Parents can help by choosing games where younger children have a fair chance, such as games based on luck rather than pure skill. It is also a good idea to rotate between different types of games so that sometimes the older child is challenged, and other times the younger one has a chance to succeed. This prevents a pattern where one child is always dominating the other. 

Teach Empathy and Encouragement 

Parents should guide their older children to see themselves as mentors, not just competitors. Encourage them to help their younger siblings learn the rules of a new game. When you see them showing patience or kindness, offer specific praise: ‘It was so helpful how you explained that rule so patiently.’ By reinforcing empathy, you can help to transform the dynamic from one of rivalry to one of mentorship. 

Spiritual Insight 

Do Not Ridicule Others 

Islam strictly forbids believers from ridiculing or mocking one another. The Quran reminds us that a person we look down upon may, in fact, be better than us in the sight of Allah. This is a crucial lesson in humility for children to learn. 

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…’ 

Show Mercy to the Young 

The prophetic tradition places a great emphasis on the responsibility of older or stronger individuals to show mercy and respect towards those who are younger or more vulnerable. This is considered a defining characteristic of a believer. 

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

‘He is not one of us who does not show mercy to our young and respect to our elders.’ 

Nurturing Bonds of Compassion 

By teaching your older children that showing respect and mercy are acts of worship, you help them to see their younger siblings not as targets for mockery, but as a trust (amanah) from Allah. This approach nurtures true bonds of compassion, turning playtime into an opportunity for love, learning, and barakah.