Parenting Perspective 

Intervene Calmly 

While a child might see mocking as harmless fun, it can damage friendships and encourage arrogance. The first step is to intervene calmly but clearly in the moment: ‘In our family, we do not laugh at other people’s expense. Even jokes can hurt feelings.’ This sets a firm boundary without causing public shame. Later, you can talk to them privately and encourage empathy by asking, ‘How would you feel if someone made that joke about you?’ 

Guide Towards Positive Play 

Encourage your child to find ways to be funny that are inclusive, not hurtful. Praise them when you see them being kind or encouraging to others. It is also important to model respectful humour yourself, so they learn from your example that it is possible to have fun without making fun of someone. This consistent guidance helps a child to understand that true friendships are built on mutual respect. 

Kindness is the Foundation 

By addressing mocking behaviour firmly yet gently, you teach your child that kindness is the foundation of lasting play and strong relationships. This helps them learn that real friendship is built on respect, not on belittling others. 

Spiritual Insight 

Do Not Ridicule Others 

Islam explicitly forbids believers from mocking or ridiculing one another. The Quran reminds us that the person being belittled may be more honoured in the sight of Allah, a powerful lesson in humility. 

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…’ 

Be Beneficial, Not Harmful 

The prophetic tradition teaches that the most beloved people to Allah are those who bring the most benefit to others. Mockery causes harm and distress, while kindness and encouragement are among the most beneficial things we can offer. 

It is recorded in Sunan Nisai, 5379, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The most beloved of people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to others.’ 

Nurturing Compassion and Joy 

When you guide your child to replace mockery with kindness, you teach them that humour should be a tool to bring people together, not to cause hurt. This nurtures their compassion, strengthens their friendships, and helps them to embody the values that are beloved by Allah.