How do I guide my child through sexist ads? 

Parenting Perspective 

Explain the Purpose of Ads 

Guiding your child through sexist advertisements involves teaching them how to recognise and challenge the stereotypes often presented in the media, while also reinforcing their self-worth and respect for others. You can start by explaining that advertisements are designed to sell products, and sometimes they use exaggerated or harmful gender roles to appeal to people’s emotions. You could say, ‘Advertisements often show things in a way that might not be true or fair. They sometimes make boys and girls think they need to act a certain way to be liked, but we know that is not true.’ 

Encourage Critical Thinking 

Encourage your child to think critically about what they see in advertisements. For example, you can ask them, ‘How do you think this ad makes boys and girls feel? Does it show everyone in a fair way?’ This helps your child to question the stereotypes they may encounter. You should teach them that gender should not limit anyone’s choices or self-expression. ‘You can be strong, smart, and creative, no matter what an ad suggests.’ 

Reinforce Their True Worth 

It is important to praise your child when they express their thoughts critically about advertisements, as this reinforces that they are thinking for themselves and staying true to their values. Finally, you can help your child to understand that not everything in the media reflects reality, and that they should focus on their own abilities and character, rather than on external pressures. ‘You do not need to change who you are to fit into an ad. You are amazing just the way you are, and your worth is not based on what advertisements tell you.’ 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, fairness and respect for both genders are fundamental. Allah Almighty reminds us in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 13: 

‘O mankind, indeed, We (Allah Almighty) have created you all from one man and one woman; and placed you amongst various nations and tribes for your introduction to each other; indeed, the best of you in the judgement of Allah (Almighty) is the one who is most virtuous; indeed, Allah (Almighty) is the Omniscient, the all Cognisant.’ 

This verse teaches us that both genders are equal in the sight of Allah, and that our true worth is determined by our actions and our character, not by gender-based stereotypes. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also exemplified respect for both genders and encouraged us to treat each other with dignity. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3587, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The best of you are those who are the best to their families.’ 

This Hadith reinforces that kindness, respect, and equality should be applied in all aspects of our lives, including how we view and treat others. By guiding your child through sexist advertisements, you are helping them to uphold these Islamic values of fairness, respect, and equality.