Sometimes, we often struggle to find effective ways to teach our little ones the importance of respecting parents and following the teachings of Islam. And I know a lot of us have or are struggling with teaching our kids how they can show respect for us.
That’s why I’ve put together some practical, fun ideas to help our kids understand the importance of this value. These are methods I’ve tried with my kids, and to be honest with you, they worked just perfectly.
I will share them with you, but first of all, why is respecting parents in Islam an essential value?
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Why Is Respecting Parents Important in Islam?
To us Muslims, it is one of the most beautiful values a child can grow up with. The Quran emphasizes this in several verses.
For instance, Allah says:
“And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination”
(Quran 31:14).
This verse reminds us how much our parents did for us. And now that we are parents, it’s our turn to teach our kids to see the same in us and to appreciate and respect us for that.
How Do You Instill This Value in Your Kids?
For me, raising children who respect their parents begins with simple, everyday actions. You don’t have to start with strict rules, it might affect how your little pumpkins see you, as well as your relationship with them.
Here are some simple yet effective methods that got the job done for me.
1. Start with Greetings and Forehead Kisses
Teach your children to greet you warmly every morning. A heartfelt “As Salaam Alaykum” and a hug should be enough, but I usually add forehead kisses.
I believe doing this every morning will help them develop a sense of responsibility to be respectful, kind and warm to you as their parents.
2. Lending a Hand at Home
Encouraging your kids to help with household chores is something I consider crucial in teaching your kids about respect in Islam.
Small tasks like making their bed, tidying up toys, or setting the table can make a big difference and teach them about responsibility and helping out in the house.
3. Expressing Gratitude
Model and encourage the use of “please” and “thank you” in your home, even for the littlest things.
These words might sound small, but they also go a long way in teaching our kids that they should be appreciative of our presence in their lives and as such, they have to be respectful towards us.
4. Spend Quality Time Together
Make time to have meaningful conversations with your kids.
Whether it’s over breakfast or during a quiet evening, talking about each other’s day could strengthen your bond and show that you value their thoughts and experiences. Therefore, teaching them to value yours too.
5. Offering Help Without Being Asked
One more thing that works magic is to instil the habit of offering help before they are asked to.
It could be carrying groceries, helping younger siblings, or finding a missing item, these acts show thoughtfulness and care.
To reinforce these kindness acts, we recommend a kindness checklist for them. We have curated one that has helped our little ones and many other kids become more kind and respectful towards us as their parents.
Check it out here and download or print it out for free. It works wonders.
6. Praying With Your Kids
Engaging in spiritual activities like reciting duas and performing salah with your kids has proven to help teach kids the importance of respecting parents in Islam. It’s simple; guide them towards Allah and Rasulullah, and watch them respect and value your presence in their lives.
By doing this, you are not only building their faith. You are guiding them towards something that’s worth cherishing forever.
7. Tell Them Stories
If there’s one thing kids love, it’s engaging stories. That’s why I love to use storytelling to teach them valuable lessons. Here, it is important to use a lovable role model to inspire them to become just like that character, or even better.
If you’re looking for a resourceful book to teach these values, consider introducing Being Kind to Mommy during your storytime. It’s our own wonderful book that combines engaging storytelling with valuable life lessons, which is perfect for guiding young hearts towards respectful and loving behavior.
To Draw To a Close
Teaching our kids to respect us is a continuous day-by-day process. It takes time and patience, but it’s worth it. And guiding our children towards respecting us is not imposing a rule on them.
We’re teaching them a value that brings them closer to us and strengthens their faith.
Remember, every small step counts. Keep going mama – you’re doing great!
Want to Kickstart Your Kids’ Kindness Journey?
Download our Free Printable Checklist of Daily Kind Acts for more ideas kids can try to make them more loving and respectful. Also, parents, don’t forget to check out Being Kind to Mummy – it’s a wonderful resource for instilling the essential values of Islam in young hearts.
