How to Build Respect When One Sibling Mocks Another 

Parenting Perspective 

Mockery Can Come From Insecurity 

It can be disheartening when you see one child’s good action met with mockery instead of encouragement. Often, this response comes from insecurity or jealousy rather than malice. A child may feel overlooked when their sibling is praised, and mocking becomes a way to regain attention. Recognising this can help you respond with patience rather than frustration. 

Set the Tone as a Parent 

A practical first step is to set the tone as a parent. When a child does something kind, acknowledge it warmly but briefly, then shift to encouraging both children to notice and affirm it. For example, you could say, ‘That was a kind thing your brother did. What could we say to show him we appreciate it?’ This trains siblings to respond with respect and gratitude, not dismissal. 

Redirect Gently 

If one mocks, instead of scolding harshly, redirect gently: ‘I hear you laughing, but in our family, we try to build each other up. Can you think of something kind to say instead?’ This both corrects and teaches in the moment. Over time, it reinforces that kindness deserves honour, not ridicule. 

Create Rituals of Appreciation 

It is also important to create family rituals of appreciation. For instance, at dinner, each child could share one good thing their siblings did that day. This not only reduces jealousy but also normalises seeing each other’s strengths. 

Model the Behaviour Yourself 

Lastly, model the behaviour yourself. When you make a point of respecting and appreciating acts of kindness, even small ones, your children learn that kindness is something to value and not to belittle. With consistency, your family culture gradually shifts towards celebration rather than competition. 

Spiritual Insight 

Do Not Ridicule Another People 

Islam emphasises honouring good deeds and discourages belittling others. 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 not only hurtful but also spiritually dangerous, as we cannot know who is more honoured in the sight of Allah. Teaching your children this principle helps them see that celebrating kindness is part of Taqwa, while mockery goes against the character Allah loves. 

Mercy and Respect Are Defining Qualities 

It is recorded in Sunan Abu Dawud, Book 43, Hadith 171, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Those who do not show mercy to our young ones and do not realise the rights of our elders are not from us.’  

This Hadith highlights that mercy and respect are defining qualities of a Muslim community. By guiding your children to respect each other’s efforts, you are nurturing these qualities within your own household. 

Building a culture of respect takes time, but by consistently redirecting mockery towards appreciation, and by grounding this in the values of Islam, you teach your children that every act of kindness is worthy of honour. In this way, they will gradually learn to celebrate with one another instead of tearing each other down.