How do I stop my child from imitating sighs or gestures that feel disrespectful? 

Parenting Perspective 

When a child begins to copy dismissive gestures like sighing or shrugging, it can feel just as disrespectful as rude words. These actions are often picked up from peers, media, or even other adults, but they send a clear message of defiance or contempt. If left unaddressed, they can become an ingrained part of your child’s communication style. The goal is to not only stop the gestures but also to teach your child better ways of expressing frustration with respect. 

Why Children Copy Disrespectful Gestures 

Understanding the motivation behind these non-verbal cues allows you to respond constructively. Children often copy such gestures because: 

• They see others using them as a way to express defiance without direct verbal confrontation. 

• The gestures feel “safe” as they communicate strong feelings without using words. 

• They enjoy the powerful reaction these actions can provoke from parents or siblings. 

Address Gestures Directly 

Do not ignore this behaviour. The moment it happens, point it out calmly and clearly. 

‘That sigh is a disrespectful gesture. If you are feeling upset, you need to use your words to explain how you feel.’ 

This teaches your child that their body language is an important part of their manners. 

Teach Healthy Alternatives 

Explain that it is perfectly normal to feel frustrated, but there are better ways to show it. Teach them specific phrases to use instead of dismissive gestures. 

• ‘I am feeling frustrated right now.’ 

• ‘I need a short break before I answer.’ 

Giving them the right words empowers them to communicate respectfully, even when they are unhappy. 

Model Respectful Body Language 

Children are constantly observing and imitating. Ensure that your own tone and gestures reflect calmness and patience, especially when you are correcting them. They will learn more from your consistent example than from any lecture. 

Reinforce Positive Behaviour 

Whenever your child successfully expresses their feelings without resorting to dismissive gestures, praise their choice. 

‘I really appreciate how you told me you were frustrated without sighing or rolling your eyes. That shows true maturity.’ 

This positive reinforcement strengthens their good habits and shows them that respect earns more attention than disrespect. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that both our words and our actions are a reflection of the state of our heart. Disrespectful gestures are often subtle signs of arrogance (kibr), while humility and calmness are the marks of true faith. Teaching children to control their body language is a way of nurturing both their manners and their spiritual development. 

Gestures of arrogance or contempt are disliked by Allah, as they damage relationships and reveal pride in the heart. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Luqman (31), Verse 18: 

‘ And do not turn your cheek from people (in pride and contempt), and do not walk on the Earth in self-glory; indeed, Allah (Almighty) does not love those (people who believe in) self-aggrandizement and boasting.‘ 

This verse reminds us that our physical expressions of contempt are a sign of an inner state that is displeasing to Allah. 

Arrogance, whether shown through words or actions, is a dangerous trait that must be corrected. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 2485, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Shall I not inform you about the people of the Fire? They are every harsh, arrogant, and proud person.’ 

This hadith serves as a powerful warning against the dangers of arrogance. By guiding your child to replace sighs and dismissive gestures with respectful communication, you are not only correcting their outward manners but also shaping a heart of humility. Over time, they will learn that true dignity lies in self-control, and that every action spoken or unspoken is a part of their faith.