What should they say when peers laugh at a mistake in class? 

Parenting Perspective 

Few things can sting a child’s confidence more than being laughed at by their peers, especially in a classroom setting where they already feel exposed. As a parent, you may naturally worry that moments like these will make your child withdrawn or fearful of participating in the future. The goal, however, is not to shield them from every giggle, but to equip them with the words and emotional tools that will protect their dignity and keep their confidence intact. 

Understand the Emotional Impact 

When their peers laugh at them, a child’s first instinct is often to feel shame. Their mind may tell them, ‘I am foolish,’ or ‘Everyone thinks I am stupid.’ A single incident can create long-term hesitation when it comes to raising their hand or taking academic risks. It is crucial to remind your child that making a mistake is not proof of failure, but rather proof of their courage. Only those who are brave enough to try will sometimes make mistakes. You can start with empathy and normalisation: ‘That must have felt really embarrassing when they laughed. But you know what? Everyone who is learning makes mistakes, even adults.’ This helps children to separate the event from their sense of self-worth. 

Coach Their Words: Calm, Clear, and Brief 

A child in this situation does not need a clever comeback or an emotional outburst; they need short, calm phrases that express a quiet confidence. You can practise a few options together at home. 

• ‘Everyone makes mistakes. That is how we learn.’ 

• ‘It is okay, I will get it right next time.’ 

• A light smile and a moment of silence, which is often the most powerful response of all. 

Role-playing these responses can help to train a feeling of calmness, not defensiveness, making it more likely they will remember what to do in the moment. 

Rebuild Confidence Through Positive Reinforcement 

After such an incident, it is important to focus on reinforcing your child’s effort and courage, not on whether they were correct. You could say, ‘I am so proud of you for speaking up in class today. You showed real bravery.’ You can also encourage your child to continue raising their hand, even if fear is whispering for them to stop. It is helpful to praise their resilience: ‘You tried again today, and that shows real strength.’ 

Responding When Teasing Becomes Persistent 

If the laughter turns into repeated mockery or targeted teasing, it is important to involve the teacher in a calm and collaborative way. You could say, ‘My child has been feeling anxious after some classmates laughed at their mistake. Could you perhaps help to reinforce a sense of kindness and support during lessons?’ Approaching the teacher as a partner shows your child that seeking help is a responsible and mature action, not a sign of weakness. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us to honour the dignity of others and to respond to any hurt we may receive with a sense of composure and grace. Helping a child to deal with mockery is not just a form of emotional training; it is a means of spiritual growth. It teaches them the virtues of patience (sabr), forgiveness, and a deep reliance on Allah Almighty’s awareness of every heart. 

Preserving Dignity in the Face of Mockery 

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; and let not the women (ridicule) other women, as perhaps they may be better than them…‘ 

This verse reminds us that mockery is never a sign of superiority. In fact, the one being mocked may be more beloved to Allah Almighty. Teaching this to your child can give them a deep sense of inner strength, knowing that even when others laugh, Allah sees their sincerity and their effort. 

The Prophetic Example of Grace Under Pressure 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 41, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘A Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand others are safe.’ 

This teaches us that true believers are those who protect others from hurtful words and actions. When your child chooses not to retaliate or mock in return, they are embodying a prophetic character, choosing gentle strength over reactive anger. 

You can encourage your child to make a short du’a in such moments: ‘O Allah, make me patient and give me confidence in Your eyes.’ Remind them that Allah Almighty knows every tear and every effort. Their calm response is not a sign of weakness, but a reflection of their iman (faith). When a child learns to face laughter with a quiet confidence, they gain more than just emotional resilience; they gain a sense of spiritual maturity. They learn that their dignity comes not from being flawless, but from remaining graceful under trial, and that their self-worth is ultimately measured by Allah, not by the crowd.