What is the best way to explain to a young child that ‘instant’ is not always ‘better’? 

Parenting Perspective 

Young children often find speed exciting and naturally prefer things that happen quickly. They may not yet understand that some things gain value, quality, or meaning when they take time. The key is to teach this lesson through experiences that are natural and relatable to their world. 

Use Tangible Examples 

Use simple, hands-on activities to show the value of a process. Let them see how a cake needs time to bake properly, or how seeds need days of watering before they sprout. When they participate in these activities, they can witness the transformation and appreciate the final result even more. 

Compare Experiences 

Gently point out how some experiences are more enjoyable because they last longer. You could mention how a favourite bedtime story feels more special when you take your time with it, compared to something that is rushed and ends too quickly. This helps them to connect time with deeper enjoyment. 

Encourage Reflection 

After your child has waited patiently for something, encourage them to reflect on the experience. You can ask, ‘How did it feel to finally get the toy you saved up for?’ This helps them to link the feeling of satisfaction directly to the patience they showed along the way. 

Through these gentle examples, you can show your child that while getting things instantly is tempting, the deeper and more lasting rewards often lie in the wait. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that the best outcomes are often those that require patience and trust in Allah Almighty’s perfect timing. It reminds us that what is quick is not always what is best for us. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 216: 

‘…And perhaps that which you are repelled by (may in fact) be for your betterment; and perhaps that thing which you love to undertake, and that might be bad for you; and (the reality is that) Allah (Almighty) is fully aware of everything that you do not know.’ 

This profound verse reminds us that true benefit is not always immediate or obvious, and that wisdom lies in trusting the process ordained by God. 

It is recorded in Mishkaat Al Masaabih, Hadith 141, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The best of affairs are those which are moderate.’ 

This teaches us that balance, steadiness, and avoiding extremes of haste or delay often lead to the most blessed and sustainable outcomes. 

When you help your child understand that not everything in life should be instant, you are nurturing in them patience, gratitude, and the ability to find joy in the journey, not just the destination.