What do I say when my child wants to quit a sport or hobby after one failure, hoping to watch videos instead? 

Parenting Perspective 

When a child faces a setback and their first impulse is to turn to screens for comfort, it can suggest they are beginning to associate effort with frustration and digital entertainment with relief. The aim is to validate their feelings while gently guiding them back towards seeing the value in perseverance. 

Acknowledge the Disappointment 

Before offering any advice, start by empathising with their feelings. Saying something like, ‘I know it feels so upsetting when things do not work out the way you had hoped,’ helps them to feel heard and understood. This connection comes first. 

Reframe Failure as a Step Forward 

Gently help them to see this moment differently. You can share examples from your own life where you struggled with something at first but improved over time. This helps to reframe failure as a normal part of learning, showing them that one setback does not define their potential. 

Offer Encouragement Through Action 

Rather than forcing them back into the activity immediately, which can increase their resistance, suggest trying again in a much smaller, low-pressure way. For example, if they missed a goal in football, you could practise kicking the ball together in the garden for just a few minutes. 

By combining empathy with gradual re-engagement, you teach your child that persistence is a skill worth developing and that screens are not the only source of comfort after a challenge. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam constantly reminds us that true success, both worldly and spiritual, comes through perseverance and patience, especially when we are faced with initial setbacks. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Zumar (39), Verse 10: 

‘…Indeed, those people that were resilient shall be rewarded with what is their due, without any limitations”.’ 

This reminds us that steadfastness in the face of difficulty brings with it an immeasurable and unimaginable reward from Allah Almighty. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2664, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than the weak believer, while there is good in both. Strive for that which will benefit you, seek the help of Allah, and do not feel helpless.’ 

This teaches us that true strength lies in continuous, hopeful effort and complete reliance on Allah, even when the results of our efforts are not immediately apparent. 

By responding to their disappointment with empathy and encouragement, you help your child to understand that persistence, rather than retreating into instant distractions, is what builds not just their skill but also their faith and inner strength.