The Importance of Raising Confident Children

By: Asma Shums,
Many of the Companions of the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) in the Madinan phase of the sirah were either in the prime of their youth or children who grew up in his company. Their biographies provide abundant information of how their upbringing was, whether pre-teens, young adults or as old age came about. Their Islam shaped the way they lead the nation. Given the self-serving, individualism-driven mindset of today, it is important to encourage these positive qualities in order to build a healthy level of self-esteem and confidence, while at the same time safeguarding against arrogance or bigotry
toward others.
Knowledge
Seeking knowledge is an obligation for every Muslim. This is stated in many ahadith, the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, “Allah makes the way to Jannah easy for he who treads the path in search of knowledge.”
Parenting With Excellence (Ihsaan)
Muslim Parents must be in constant search of sound knowledge to increase their own understanding and practice of Islam—in addition to acquiring secular knowledge and the necessary skills to practically navigate the world. Furthermore, one must address any questions, concerns, and doubts one’s children may have and adequately guide them to a sound source should the parents not know it themselves.
Practice what you preach
Not practicing what one preaches is a sign of hypocrisy and children are the first to notice that. Roohi Tahir, an author with Yaqeen Institute, highlights an important passage: “Ibn Al-Qayyim (d. 1350 CE)
mentions that foolishness and short-sightedness are attributed to hypocrisy. Those who exhibit these characteristics lack spiritual insight and are prone to falling into doubt and following their desires.
Eventually, this may lead to a contradiction between belief and practice—and ultimately, to one belittling the religion. He describes a “people prone to laziness and laxity in fulfilling the orders of the All-Merciful and because of this they find sincerity burdensome.”
Nurture The Children For Future
Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas, the mufassir of the Ummah highlights his own experience as a young person: “One day I was riding behind the Prophet when he said, “O lad, be mindful of Allah and He will protect you. Be mindful of Allah and you shall find Him with you. When you ask (for anything), ask it from Allah, and if you seek help, seek help from Allah.””
Email info at: asmashums@gmail.com