Parenting Perspective 

Teach the Difference Between Inclusive and Exclusive Humour 

Children often use sarcasm to get a laugh, without realising how much it can hurt others. The first step is to help them understand the difference between inclusive and exclusive humour. You can explain, ‘A good joke is one that makes everyone feel happy. If someone is left feeling hurt, then it is not a good joke.’ Encourage them to pay attention to how people react to their words—did they bring a smile or an uncomfortable silence? 

Replace Hurtful Jokes with Positive Humour 

Actively guide your child towards using humour in a way that brings people together. You can role-play light-hearted jokes that are not aimed at anyone, or encourage them to tell funny stories instead of using sarcasm. When you see them making others laugh in a kind way, offer praise: ‘That was a wonderful way to be funny without hurting anyone’s feelings.’ This teaches them that kindness makes humour better, not weaker. 

Move from Sarcasm to Uplifting Humour 

By setting clear boundaries and offering positive alternatives, you help your child move away from sarcasm that wounds towards humour that uplifts and connects. This builds their empathy and strengthens their relationships. 

Spiritual Insight 

Do Not Ridicule Others 

Islam clearly forbids mockery and reminds believers that their words carry significant weight. The Quran warns us against ridiculing others, as the person we belittle may be more honoured in the sight of Allah. 

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…’ 

Humour Must Not Come at the Cost of Kindness 

The prophetic tradition gives a stern warning to those who use falsehood or hurt to make others laugh. This teaches us that while humour is permissible, it must never come at the expense of truthfulness and kindness. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, 2315, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Woe to the one who speaks and lies to make people laugh. Woe to him, woe to him.’ 

Uplifting Others, Not Mocking Them 

When your child understands that good, kind humour is a part of an Islamic character, they will begin to see that real joy comes from uplifting others, not from mocking them. This helps to transform their speech into a source of connection and respect, earning them reward from Allah.