Parenting Perspective 

Consider the Context 

Deciding whether to correct your child in public depends on the situation and the nature of the mistake. While it is important to guide your child, doing so in public requires a delicate balance to avoid embarrassment and protect their dignity. Start by considering the context. If the mistake is minor and not affecting others, it might be better to wait until you are in a private setting to address it. This gives your child the space to learn from their error without feeling shamed in front of others. 

Correcting Gently in the Moment 

However, if the mistake is something that needs immediate attention, such as inappropriate behaviour or disrespecting others, it is important to correct it calmly and gently. For example, if your child speaks rudely to someone, you could guide them by saying, ‘We do not speak like that. Let us try again politely.’ It is crucial to keep your tone calm and loving, as this shows your child that the correction comes from a place of care, not punishment. 

Reinforce the Lesson Privately 

If you do need to correct your child in public, avoid raising your voice or making them feel like they are being scolded. Offer praise and encouragement when they correct their behaviour to show that learning from mistakes is a positive experience. After the situation has passed, reinforce the lesson privately, where your child will be more receptive to understanding the mistake and learning from it. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, it is important to treat others with kindness and respect, and this extends to how we correct our children. Allah Almighty reminds us 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….’ 

This verse teaches us the importance of respecting others’ dignity, even when they make mistakes. By correcting your child in a respectful and private manner, you are modelling this principle of dignity and kindness. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ exemplified this behaviour. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6094, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

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

This Hadith reminds us that the best way to guide our children is through patience, understanding, and respect. By addressing mistakes gently and with love, both in private and in public, you are teaching your child to act with respect and integrity in all situations.