How to Address Disrespectful Body Language with a Child 

Parenting Perspective 

Children often communicate more through actions than words. Crossed arms, eye-rolling, or walking away can all signal frustration and disrespect. While these behaviours may not seem as overt as spoken defiance, they still affect the dynamic of the parent-child relationship. Addressing disrespectful body language effectively requires calm instruction, not shaming or punishment. 

Describe What You See Without Judgement 

Instead of saying, “You are being rude,” use objective observations. For example, “When you roll your eyes, it feels like you are not listening to me.” This approach makes the issue clear without attacking your child’s character, promoting understanding rather than defensiveness. 

Explain Why It Matters 

Help your child understand that their body language is a form of communication. You might say, “Even if you do not speak, your actions send a message. Respect means showing it through your tone, words, and gestures.” This gives meaning to your correction and prevents it from feeling like nitpicking. 

Teach Alternative Expressions 

Guide your child towards healthier ways of expressing themselves. For example, “If you disagree, please tell me calmly instead of rolling your eyes.” Over time, this equips your child to manage their frustration in respectful ways, which helps to build maturity and self-awareness. 

By discussing body language in this way, you turn what could be a moment of silent disrespect into an opportunity for growth. It shows your child that respect is holistic and is carried in actions just as much as in words. 

Spiritual Insight 

Disrespectful body language is a concept also addressed within Islamic teachings, which emphasise humility and respect in all forms of interaction. 

Guidance from the noble Quran 

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 arrogance and disrespect can be shown through gestures and posture, not merely through words. It reinforces the Islamic value of humility. 

Teachings of the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ 

It is recorded in Sunan Nisa’i, Hadith 2559, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘He who believes in Allah and the Last Day should speak good or remain silent.’ 

This Hadith teaches us that even silence should be respectful, reminding us that communication is more than speech alone; it is also about the intent and manner of our actions. 

By addressing disrespectful body language gently and clearly, you help your child connect their everyday behaviour with Islamic values of humility and respect. They learn that faith touches every aspect of life, from their words to their gestures, and that their character is reflected in how they carry themselves just as much as in what they say.