What should I do when praise for one child triggers teasing from another? 

Parenting Perspective 

When praise for one child prompts another to tease, it is often a sign of underlying insecurity rather than genuine malice. Addressing this dynamic with empathy and clear boundaries can restore harmony and build stronger sibling relationships. 

Understand the Root of the Teasing 

A child who teases in this situation may feel left out, worried they are being unfavourably compared, or simply unsure how to manage their feelings of jealousy. Recognising that the behaviour stems from insecurity or a desire for attention allows you to respond with calmness instead of frustration. Before scolding, pause to acknowledge both children’s feelings. This approach validates the praised child while gently addressing the one who teased, reinforcing kindness as the expected family standard. 

Implement Strategies to Restore Balance 

Several practical steps can prevent this pattern from taking hold. Firstly, avoid turning praise into a direct comparison; focus on the specific action rather than suggesting one child did it better. Secondly, consider offering praise in private when you anticipate a sensitive reaction, as this helps each child feel noticed without triggering public rivalry. Thirdly, set a firm and calm boundary that teasing is unacceptable because it is hurtful. You can also reduce resentment by offering the teasing child a different path to encouragement, such as acknowledging a positive action they took earlier. This consistency teaches that praise is not a limited resource, and kindness is always the correct response. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam guides parents to cultivate an environment of justice, sensitivity, and mutual respect within the home, directly addressing issues like ridicule and unfairness. 

Instilling the Prohibition of Ridicule 

Teasing or mocking another person goes against a core principle of Islamic etiquette. Parents have a duty to teach their children the importance of respectful interaction from a young age. 

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…’ 

This powerful verse provides a direct lesson against belittling others. It is a parent’s responsibility to apply this wisdom in daily life, making it clear that teasing a sibling is a violation of this divine guidance. 

The Prophetic Model of Justice 

The prophetic example emphasises the need for complete fairness in how children are treated, which includes protecting their honour and emotional well-being. 

It is recorded in Mishkaat Al Masaabih, Hadith 3252-3253, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Fear Allah and be just with your children.’ 

In this context, justice includes ensuring one child’s dignity is not diminished by another’s teasing. By establishing firm boundaries against ridicule and balancing praise with fairness, parents are following this prophetic model. Teaching children that teasing is contrary to the spirit of Islam, while simultaneously modelling individual encouragement, helps them grow into compassionate and just adults who support, rather than undermine, one another.