Q: I have two children Alhamdulillah. Both are boys age four years and two and a half years. Both are very naughty/aggressive by nature. I am trying to mange them but some times I feel that I am too strict with them so I try to change my behaviour, but when I change myself they became more aggressive and not ready to listen to anything. Sometimes it becomes really awkward and embarrassing when we (me and my wife) are calling them for something but they simply ignoring us and when we try to be little strict they (specially the younger one) starts shouting and crying for hours. Please guide me what Islam says about this situation? Is getting a little strict permissible or not? What is the best way treat a child?
A: To teach the child discipline and respect is the best gift a parent can give to the child. Respect and discipline requires firmness with kindness. A simple procedure in disciplining children is don’t hit them but avoid giving them some luxury item that you normally give them for a week or two weeks.
And Allah Ta’ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
Answered by:
Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)