Parenting Perspective 

Teach Equal Value and Dignity 

Guiding your child to avoid putting down the opposite gender is crucial for fostering respect, empathy, and healthy relationships. You can start by teaching your child that both boys and girls have equal value and dignity. You might say, ‘In Islam, men and women are equal in the eyes of Allah. We should respect each other, no matter if we are a boy or a girl.’ This helps your child to understand that disrespecting someone based on their gender is not acceptable in Islam. 

Use Real-Life Examples 

Use real-life examples to show how negative language or attitudes toward the opposite gender can harm relationships. For example, if your child makes a rude comment about a girl or a boy, you can gently correct them and explain why their words are hurtful. You could say, ‘It is not kind to speak like that. Imagine how you would feel if someone said something hurtful about you.’ This encourages empathy and helps your child to see the emotional impact of their words. 

Appreciate Strengths and Model Respect 

Encourage your child to speak kindly about both genders and to appreciate the strengths and qualities of others. You can say, ‘Boys and girls are different, but both have their own strengths and contributions. Let us appreciate each other’s qualities and treat everyone with kindness.’ You should also model respectful behaviour yourself. Children learn a great deal from observing their parents, so be mindful of how you speak about others and be sure to treat people of all genders with respect. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, Allah commands us to respect and to honour all people, regardless of their gender. 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….’ 

This verse teaches that we should never mock, belittle, or put down others, as every person has inherent value in the eyes of Allah. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also emphasised the importance of treating everyone with respect, regardless of their gender. It is recorded in Sunan Abi Dawood, Hadith 3252, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘Speak the truth, even if it is bitter.’ 

This Hadith highlights the importance of sincerity and kindness in our interactions, not just towards those of the same gender, but to all people. By teaching your child to avoid putting down the opposite gender, you are helping them to embody the Islamic values of respect, kindness, and equality.