YOUR CHILD IS BECOMING WHO YOU RAISE

 FAJR REMINDER: YOUR CHILD IS BECOMING WHO YOU RAISE

By: Umm Affān

Ṣafar 22, 1448 (6-August-2026)

Another key aspect of child upbringing in Islām that every Muslim parent must take seriously is moral upbringing. This is where a child gradually learns who they are and, more importantly, who they should strive to become. It is the slow and intentional shaping of manners, virtues, and a sense of responsibility. Through it, children develop qualities such as honesty, patience, self-discipline, kindness, respect, trustworthiness, humility, and modesty in both speech and behavior.

Allāh praises the Prophet (ﷺ) for his exceptional character, saying: “And verily, you (O Muḥammad ﷺ) are on an exalted standard of character.” [Sūrah Al-Qalam (68): 4] This reminds us that good character is not separate from our Dīn; it is an essential part of it. Imām Ibn Al-Qayyim (Raḥimahullāh) said, “The religion itself is an entirely good character, so whosoever surpasses you in character, surpasses you in religion.” [Madārij al-Sālikīn 2/294]

So, what does moral upbringing look like in everyday life? It means being the role model your children can learn from by watching you. It means setting clear rules and explaining why they matter, praising effort and truthful behavior, and teaching accountability without resorting to harshness. It also means encouraging children to apologize when they are wrong and make things right, teaching them gratitude and contentment, building good habits through consistent routines, and encouraging them to serve others by helping their siblings, grandparents, neighbors, and those around them.

Good character can become a child's lifelong companion. Knowledge may open doors, but character determines how a person walks through them. Remember, your child is becoming who you raise, not simply who you hope they will become.

I beseech Allāh (ﷻ) to aid us in raising morally upright children. Aameen.