Mindful Parenting Tips For Muslim Moms
With the rise of technology and gadgets, parenting has become a real challenge in the 21st century. The internet is flooded with all kinds of content, and even after placing several parental controls, parents can still not protect their kids completely.
Before we move on to more complex and substantive ideas, there are a couple of things you need to remember. The most important thing to remember is that there is no one right or wrong way of parenting. Every mother in this world tries their level best to make this a safe and steady world for their child, but despite all their efforts, the world can still haunt you sometimes. Before you get too concerned, let us stop you right there. We have something great in store for you.
If you are a concerned mom who is facing difficulty in parenting their child, here are 10 amazing tips to help you out.
Be firm- but be gentle:
It is a truth universally acknowledged that no one can love a child more than a mother. This section does not intend to discredit the love mothers have for their sons and daughters. But this love can often become counterproductive. When your child asks to see their favorite cartoon and you doubt the story and theme behind the cartoon, you shouldn't let your love overpower you. Instead, you should try to stop your child from watching an inappropriate show or movie.
Additionally, you should also explain the reasoning behind your decision. This will allow your child to be more consistent later.
Have honest intentions- Allah will reward you:
The intention behind any action should be both pure and religious. Islamic faith places a lot of importance on the upbringing of the child. It also emphasizes the need to have honest intentions behind each decision that one takes.
For example, if you are unsure of which cartoon is the best, which games are ideal, and which storybooks to give your child, ask yourself this, does our religion allow it? You will have your answer in an instant.
Allow them fun and engaging activities.
Ensure fun activities-helps in bonding:
Parenting your child rightfully does not mean you take fun and engagement out of their lives. It is the opposite. You need to ensure that your child indulges in the right kind of activities; activities that are in line with the teachings of Islam.
Similarly, you should also allow your child some digital space. There are many amazing Islamic cartoons that not only educate your child but also allow them to have a good time.
Some of the best Islamic cartoons on YouTube include:
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Nasheed for children
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Flowers of Islam
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Umar and Hana
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Islamic cartoons with Zaky
Do you- comparisons with other Muslim moms is counterproductive:
With time, you will realize that things that work out for others don't necessarily work out for you. The idea is to not let others influence your style of parenting. The child is unique and so are the parents. Every child has different skills, likes, and dislikes. Your child may be a fan of cars while your neighbor's child may be a fan of building blocks.
So never compete with other Muslim moms and do what suits you and your child the best. But regardless of what you do, make sure to not let the teachings of your faith slide.
Be realistic- too many expectations can hurt:
No child should be expected to learn everything overnight. That is just unnecessary pressure on your child. Smart Muslim moms are ones that set realistic goals for their children. If you expect your child to learn all six kalimas overnight, you are setting them up for failure. It is not only beyond their capabilities but also beyond their temperament.
It is hence recommended that you allow your child to gradually build on their habits. The habits they learn gradually are the ones that will stick with them.
So the next time you set a goal, make sure you set a realistic one.
Children grow up first-so make every moment count:
Childhood comes and goes in an instant. So before you know it, your child has already surpassed his childhood. So make every moment count and be your child's biggest cheerleader. Whenever you see them passing an important milestone, make sure you celebrate it to the fullest.
You don't always have to reward them with a gift. You can also praise them unconditionally and tell them how proud you are of their achievements.
Stay in the present-it helps:
Rather than prioritizing future developmental goals, it is important to always stay in the present. For starters, you should have a firm belief in Allah and trust HIM to give your child a beautiful future. Moreover, you should ensure that you express gratitude to Allah every single day and make your child do the same.
Secondly, you should try taking up small habits and encouraging your child to do the same. For example, you can take a stroll with your child, indulge in a water fight, or play a video game with them.
Positivity goes a long way:
Modeling the behavior of your child is important, but so is remaining optimistic throughout your life. Things might not always go your way, but you should trust God to make everything worth your while. Moreover, positivity also brings out kindness in you. It makes you see things through an optimistic lens and never lose hope.
In time, this positivity reflects in your entire life and makes your child transmit the same qualities.
Apologize- it's not a big deal:
As parents, we tend to make a great deal about apologizing. Our upbringing and socialization have made us unapologetic towards our child, even when we are absolutely in the wrong. This sets the wrong precedent for your child. Islam teaches us the importance of apology irrespective of someone's status, age, or class. This means that in instances where you make a mistake, don't shy away from apologizing to your child.