Parenting Perspective 

When a child laughs at a custom they find unusual, it typically stems from nervousness or simple curiosity rather than malice. However, this reaction can be hurtful and appear rude to others. The goal is to gently guide them away from mockery and towards a more respectful sense of curiosity, helping them understand that differences should be met with respect. 

Correct Calmly in the Moment 

If your child laughs in front of others, it is important to avoid shaming them. A gentle but clear intervention, such as placing a hand on their shoulder and quietly saying, ‘We do not laugh; we show respect,’ can correct the behaviour without causing a scene or deep embarrassment. 

Explain the Impact Afterwards 

At a suitable time later, talk to your child about why their laughter may have been hurtful. You could say, ‘Every family does things differently, and when we laugh at their way, it can make them feel sad or disrespected. Instead, we can try to understand.’ This approach turns the incident into a valuable lesson in empathy, rather than a simple matter of discipline. 

Encourage Respectful Curiosity 

Provide your child with better ways to respond to something they do not understand. Encourage them to ask you questions privately, such as, ‘Why do they do that?’ or to simply acknowledge the difference in their own mind. Teaching them how to react with interest rather than ridicule transforms a potentially awkward moment into an opportunity for learning. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that the diversity found in human customs is a part of Allah’s wisdom, and it strictly forbids believers from mocking or ridiculing others for their differences. 

A Divine Prohibition Against Ridicule 

The Quran explicitly commands believers to refrain from ridiculing others, as this is an act of arrogance that disregards the dignity granted to all people by Allah. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verses 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…’ 

The Amiable Character of a Believer 

The prophetic tradition teaches that a key characteristic of a believer is their ability to be friendly, respectful, and approachable, making others feel comfortable in their presence. 

It is recorded in Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 4834, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The believer is friendly and easy to get along with, and there is no good in the one who is not friendly and cannot be gotten along with.’ 

By teaching your child that differences are opportunities to practise respect, you are rooting their character in the Islamic value of adab. They will learn that showing dignity to all people, in all settings, is a reflection of true faith and earns the pleasure of Allah Almighty.