Parenting Perspective 

Understand the Underlying Reasons 

If your child swears at school, it is important to address the behaviour immediately while also understanding the underlying reasons for it. Swearing can be a sign that your child is frustrated, angry, or simply trying to fit in with peers who may be using inappropriate language. Start by having a calm conversation with your child about their use of swear words and the impact they have on others. You can explain that swearing can be hurtful and disrespectful. For example, you could say, ‘When you use those words, it can make others feel uncomfortable or upset. It is important to use kind words, even when you are frustrated.’ 

Teach Healthier Ways to Express Emotion 

Encourage your child to express their emotions in a healthier way. You can teach them alternative phrases to use when they are angry or upset. For instance, instead of swearing, they can say, ‘I am really frustrated,’ or ‘This is difficult for me.’ Practising these alternatives will help your child to build their emotional vocabulary and to better express themselves without resorting to inappropriate language. 

Work with the School 

It is also essential to work together with your child’s school to address the issue. Communicate with their teacher or a school counsellor to understand the context of the swearing and to ensure that appropriate measures are being taken to help your child. Praise your child when they make an effort to control their language and remind them that respectful speech is an important part of creating a positive environment at school. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, the use of offensive language is discouraged, as it contradicts the values of kindness, respect, and good character. Allah Almighty reminds us in the noble Quran at Surah Al Ahzaab (33), Verse 70: 

‘O those of you, who are believers, seek piety from Allah (Almighty) and always speak with words of blatant accuracy.’ 

This verse encourages believers to speak with dignity and respect, reinforcing the importance of using kind words and avoiding harmful language. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ⁴ﷺ also taught the importance of good speech.⁵ It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3587, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The best of you are those who are the best to their families.’ 

This Hadith highlights that kindness in speech is an essential part of building strong, respectful relationships. By guiding your child to avoid swearing and to speak kindly, you are helping them to align their behaviour with the teachings of Islam and to foster positive relationships with others.