Should I tell other parents about my child’s condition? 

Parenting Perspective 

A Personal Choice 

Deciding whether to share your child’s special educational needs (SEN) or diagnosis with other parents can feel delicate. There is no single right answer; it depends on your child’s comfort, the situation, and how much support or understanding you hope to gain. 

Sharing to Help, Not to Justify 

Start by asking yourself: Will sharing this information help my child feel safer and included? For example, if your child struggles with sensory overload or needs extra time to process instructions during playdates or classes, giving another parent a simple heads-up can prevent misunderstandings. Use clear but gentle words: ‘Just so you know, he needs a bit more time to join in games’ or ‘She sometimes gets overwhelmed, so I might step in to help her calm down.’ 

Keep Your Child’s Dignity Central 

Keep your child’s dignity at the centre of every conversation. For older children, ask for their permission first: ‘Are you okay with me telling Ali’s mum about how you get nervous in crowds?’ If they feel embarrassed, discuss what feels comfortable to share and what does not. Be selective; not everyone needs to know. Share only with parents who spend time supervising your child or whose children play closely with yours. You do not owe people full medical details; focus on what helps your child have a better experience. 

Be Prepared for Mixed Reactions 

Stay prepared for mixed reactions. Some parents will be kind and supportive, others may be awkward or uninformed. Keep your tone calm and factual, and remember you are sharing to help your child, not to justify their behaviour or invite pity. 

Spiritual Insight 

Protecting your child’s honour and wellbeing is part of your Amanah, your trust from Allah Almighty. Islam teaches us to share private matters wisely, always seeking what benefits and preserves dignity. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujurat (49), Verse 12: 

‘.And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it…‘

This Ayah reminds us how precious it is to protect another’s privacy. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ showed us that explaining sensitive truths can be done with compassion and wisdom. It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2580, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘Whoever relieves the hardship of a believer in this world, Allah will relieve his hardship on the Day of Resurrection.‘

Sometimes, sharing your child’s needs helps others support them kindly, creating ease for you both. 

If you choose to explain, do so with calm honesty, trusting that those who respond with understanding are a gift from Allah Almighty. Make Dua: ‘O Allah Almighty, guide the hearts of others to treat my child with kindness and respect.’ Teach your child that their worth is not defined by labels or what others know; it is defined by Allah Almighty’s love and the courage they show each day.