In the beautiful journey of parenthood, there is a noble responsibility bestowed upon us as Muslims: to raise successful Muslim children who embody the values and teachings of Islam. Our aim is not only to raise them as accomplished individuals but also as devout believers, instilling in them the principles that will guide them through this life and the hereafter.
As we embark on this sacred mission, let us remember that our role as parents is a profound blessing and a great trust from Allah. We are entrusted with nurturing souls that will shape the future of our Ummah. So, how can we fulfil this vital duty?
Here are some of the top parenting tips to raise the best generation of Muslim children:
1. Teach Islamic Values: It’s essential to instil Islamic values in children from a young age. Talk about Allah, the Prophet (PBUH), and the Quran with them and show how Islamic teachings can be applied to daily life.
2. Lead by Example: Children tend to learn through observation, so parents’ behaviour and attitude should reflect those of a good Muslim. Lead by example by praying regularly, performing acts of kindness, and conducting yourself with honesty, compassion, and integrity.
3. Make Time for Quran: Encourage children to read and ponder the Quran and spend quality time together studying and understanding its teachings. Develop a habit of reciting daily duas.
4. Emphasize Character Development: Good character is a hallmark of Islam, and parents must nurture it in their children. Teach qualities such as patience, honesty, kindness, and respect and emphasize how they’re crucial to a healthy and harmonious society.
5. Encourage Community Engagement: Help children understand the value of giving back to the community by engaging in charitable activities, volunteering in mosques, and participating in social events.
6. Foster a Love of Learning: Encourage children to ask questions and seek knowledge about the world. Empower them with valuable learning opportunities to expand their horizon within and beyond the Islamic world.
7. Promote Positive Relationships: Help children develop respectful, healthy relationships with Allah and others, showing appreciation and respect towards one another’s thoughts, opinions and diversity.
8. Set Health Limits: Screen time and taking care of physical and mental health can have a strong impact on children’s wellbeing. Limiting screen time, encouraging outdoor activities, and promoting healthy eating with good hygiene and exercise should be considered.
9. Practice Positive Discipline: Discipline should be an essential part of raising children with Islamic values. Focus on communication, setting boundaries and limits, and being kind while guiding children to follow good Islamic values along the way.
10. Nurture Emotional Intelligence: Encourage children to develop emotional intelligence, through different methods such as acknowledging their feelings, talking through their emotions, and helping them understand and react to others’ emotions while also practising self-reflection with oneself regularly.
Olaitan Olajumoke
