How to Respond with Curiosity to Your Child’s Imaginative Play 

Parenting Perspective 

It is natural for some parents to struggle with imaginative play. Adults often live in a world of rules, logic, and responsibilities, while children live in a world of exploration and creativity. When a child creates stories, characters, or pretend scenarios, they are not wasting time. They are practising problem-solving, empathy, and expression in a safe way.

 

Pause Before Responding 

To unlearn the habit of shutting this down, start by pausing before responding. Instead of immediately correcting or dismissing, take a moment to observe what your son is trying to share. Ask yourself, ‘What is he exploring or expressing here?’ Then try engaging with small, curious questions such as, ‘What happens next?’ or ‘Can you show me how that works?’ This shifts the moment from control to connection. 

You do not need to fully immerse yourself in every game, nor pretend to enjoy something you find uncomfortable. What matters most is your openness. By leaning into curiosity rather than judgement, you show your son that his inner world is valued and safe to express. Over time, this builds trust and strengthens his willingness to share with you, not only his games but also his feelings and thoughts. 

Balance Authority with Emotional Presence 

Allowing imagination does not mean letting go of boundaries. If a game turns disruptive or disrespectful, you can guide with gentle limits. But instead of closing the door on his ideas, you can redirect: ‘I like that story, let us keep it kind,’ or ‘Let us imagine it in this way.’ This way, you balance authority with emotional presence. 

Spiritual Insight 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Furqaan (25), verse 74: 

‘And those people that say: “O our Sustainer, Grant to us (those circumstances that make) our spouses and our offspring, a comfort for our eyes; and make us from those that have attained piety, and a role model”.’ 

This Verse highlights that children are not only a responsibility but also a source of joy and inspiration. By nurturing their individuality and imagination, a parent allows that comfort to grow, shaping them with kindness rather than suppression. 

The Prophetic Model: Mercy in Small Interactions 

It is recorded in Jami al-Tirmidhi that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘He is not one of us who does not show mercy to our young ones and honour our elders.’ 

[Jami al-Tirmidhi,27:27] 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ showed mercy even in small interactions with children, including their playful and creative expressions. His example reminds us that mercy sometimes looks like patience, sometimes like encouragement, and often like listening with genuine interest. 

By practising curiosity in place of dismissal, you honour your son’s spirit, guide him with gentleness, and align your parenting with the prophetic balance of mercy and authority. Over time, this small shift in how you respond will not only open his imagination but also open deeper channels of trust between you.