What do I say when classmates mock non-brand trainers? 

Parenting Perspective 

Children often experience teasing over branded items, and the emotional core here is embarrassment mixed with vulnerability. Being mocked can trigger anxiety, shame, or a fear of exclusion. The most effective approach is to validate the child’s feelings, offer practical scripts, and build resilience while maintaining dignity. 

Validate and Provide Scripts 

Begin by acknowledging what your child feels: ‘I can see you feel hurt when your friends comment on your trainers that shows you care about being accepted.’ This simple recognition reassures them that their emotions are valid and understood. 

Teach children calm, confident ways to respond. Encourage phrases that assert self-respect without confrontation, such as ‘I like the trainers I have today’ or ‘I feel comfortable in what I wear, thank you.’ Practising these scripts at home gives them a sense of control. Parent script: ‘Let us practise saying this together, so it feels natural when someone teases you.’ 

Encourage Perspective and Choice 

Explain that classmates’ teasing often reflects their own insecurities rather than any fault in your child. Help them understand that friendship and respect are built on actions and character, not possessions. Encourage them to focus on personal strengths and kindness, which foster genuine connections. 

Empower your child through choice by involving them in decisions about clothing and accessories that feel meaningful rather than pressured by trends. This nurtures independence, pride, and authenticity. Parent script: ‘Choosing what you like shows confidence and creativity that is more important than matching everyone else.’ 

After incidents of teasing, guide children in reflecting on their responses and emotions. Emphasise that courage, patience, and thoughtfulness matter more than what others wear or say. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that true worth is determined by character and righteousness, not material possessions. Children can learn that patience, composure, and self-respect in the face of mockery are forms of moral strength and faith. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al-Hujurat (49), Verse 11: 

‘O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them …’ 

This verse shows that mockery is discouraged and highlights the value of humility and respect. Parents can explain that responding with calm and dignity aligns with Islamic guidance and sets an example of ethical behaviour. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also emphasised composure in the face of provocation. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6114, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The strong person is not the one who overcomes people by his strength, but the one who controls himself while in anger.’ 

This teaching reassures children that strength lies in patience and self-control, not reacting to mockery. Parent script: ‘By staying calm and choosing your words wisely, you are showing strength that pleases Allah Almighty.’ 

Integrating empathy, practical scripts, and spiritual guidance helps children internalise that handling peer criticism with dignity strengthens character and faith. They understand that self-respect, patience, and moral courage are more important than any label or material possession.