Parenting Perspective 

A child’s rude comment in a public place can trigger immediate embarrassment for a parent. It is important to remember that this behaviour is often a sign of tiredness or boundary-testing, not malice. The key is to address it swiftly but calmly in the moment, saving the deeper lesson for a private conversation, thereby correcting the behaviour without causing a public scene. 

Intervene Calmly and Briefly 

In the moment, a short, firm, and quiet correction is best. Turn to your child and say, ‘That was not a respectful way to speak. We will talk about this later.’ This addresses the behaviour immediately without shaming them in front of others. 

Have the Deeper Conversation in Private 

Later, when you are both calm, explain the impact of their words. Focus on empathy: ‘How do you think it made the shopkeeper feel when you used that tone? Our words have the power to make people feel good or bad.’ This helps them connect their actions to the feelings of others. 

Practise and Prepare for Next Time 

Role-playing is an excellent tool. Practise common scenarios at home, giving them a script for polite phrases like ‘Excuse me’ or ‘No, thank you’. Rehearsing these skills in a safe environment makes it much more likely they will use them under pressure in public. 

Foster a Habit of Public Politeness 

Through this consistent approach, you are teaching them that respect is not just for home. They learn that good manners are expected everywhere and that their behaviour is a reflection of their family’s values. Over time, this builds a strong habit of social awareness and kindness. 

This method helps your child understand that respect is a universal value, essential for all their interactions. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that a believer’s good character should be consistent, shining through in public just as it does in private. Our manners are a reflection of our faith, and respectful speech is one of the most visible signs. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Israa (17), Verse 53: 

‘ And inform My servants that they should speak in only the politest manner (when they speak to the extremists in disbelief); indeed, Satan is (always ready for) infusing anarchy between them, as indeed, Satan is the most visible enemy for mankind.‘ 

This verse is a direct command to always choose ‘that which is best’ in our speech. It reminds us that our words have power, and using kind, respectful language is an act of obedience that protects our relationships. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 47, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or else keep silent.’ 

This foundational hadith gives us a simple, powerful rule for all communication: if you cannot say something good and respectful, then silence is the better option. It establishes a high standard for a believer’s speech. 

By guiding your child to replace rude words with respectful ones, you connect their everyday manners to their faith. They learn that how they speak in public is not only about politeness but about representing themselves as Muslims striving for good character.