Responding When Your Child Mocks Others 

A child’s laughter or mockery of others at difficult times is typically not an indication of malice, but rather of emotional immaturity or difficulty with vulnerability. Young children, especially during their initial school years, might not have the ability to understand or reflect the emotions of others in a constructive manner. Individuals might resort to humour or mockery as a way to protect themselves, particularly when they experience feelings of discomfort, being overwhelmed, or uncertainty about how to react. Some children, particularly those affected by their friends or online material, may adopt and continue this behaviour without thinking about it. 

Parenting Perspective 

Strategies for Teaching Empathy and Kindness 

It is recommended to answer firmly yet calmly. Start by establishing a limit regarding empathy: ‘We do not find humour in someone else’s pain. That does not represent kindness.’ Please refrain from reacting with shame or sarcasm. Instead, consider what the child might have experienced or misunderstood at that time. Engage in role-play by presenting different responses through stories or short scenarios that illustrate acts of kindness and understanding. If this behaviour continues, it could be useful to note the times and locations it occurs, as well as whether the child requires assistance in handling anxiety or social pressures. As children develop empathy, they are less likely to respond in hurtful ways, and this also enhances their relationships with others. Dealing with this behaviour early helps build emotional understanding and equips the child to be a source of help, instead of causing unease, for others nearby. 

Spiritual Insight 

The Spiritual Harm of Ridicule 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran, 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 believers that mocking others is not only a social harm, but a spiritual misstep. Ridicule reveals arrogance and short-sightedness. For a child to recognise this, the example must begin at home. When parents gently correct mocking behaviour while affirming the value of every person’s feelings, they align their family culture with the principles of compassion and humility. 

The Moral Seriousness of Withholding Mercy 

It is recorded in Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 4943 that the Holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Those who do not show mercy to our young ones…are not from us. ‘

This Hadith illustrates the moral seriousness of withholding kindness. Teaching a child to respond to distress with mercy can be done through shared reflection: ‘How do you feel when someone laughs at you?’ or ‘How would you like to be treated when you are upset?’ You may also introduce a brief reflection to share in quiet moments: ‘Allahumma ahsin khuluqi kama ahsanta khalqi’ (O Allah, perfect my character as You have perfected my form). Through this, children learn that true strength lies in emotional care, not mockery.