Parenting Perspective 

Children often encounter anxiety, peer pressure, or other overwhelming emotions when they are away from the comfort of home. In these moments, a simple and consistent grounding phrase can serve as a powerful anchor, giving them a sense of safety and helping them to regain self-control. The key is to choose a short, clear phrase that resonates with them emotionally, is easy to remember, and signals that they have permission to pause, breathe, and centre themselves. 

Choose a Simple, Reassuring Phrase 

The phrase you choose should be brief yet powerful. It could be something practical or something that connects them to their faith. Examples include: 

• ‘I am safe and I can handle this.’ 

• ‘Pause, breathe, and think.’ 

• ‘Allah Almighty is with me.’ 

Repeating the same phrase consistently helps to create a sense of familiarity, making it easier for your child to recall and use during moments of unexpected stress. 

Teach the Phrase Through Practice 

It is helpful to role-play different scenarios at home where your child might feel nervous, such as before a test, on the playground, or during a new group activity. During these practice sessions: 

• Encourage them to say the grounding phrase aloud first, and then silently in their mind to reinforce the habit of self-regulation. 

• Pair the phrase with a physical anchor, like placing a hand on their chest or taking a single deep breath, which helps to strengthen the mind-body connection. 

Combine the Phrase with Problem-Solving 

After your child has used their grounding phrase to calm themselves, you can guide them to identify a small, actionable next step. This could be taking a slow walk, asking a trusted friend for help, or simply stepping aside for a moment to regroup. You can also help them to reflect briefly on what is within their control versus what they must release, which promotes resilience without encouraging overthinking. 

With consistent practice, the grounding phrase becomes an internal tool that your child can use anywhere and at any time. It helps to nurture their independence, emotional regulation, and the confidence they need to navigate difficult situations when they are away from home. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that a conscious mindfulness of Allah Almighty is what brings true inner peace, even in the most challenging of circumstances. Just as a grounding phrase provides a mental anchor for a child, the remembrance of Allah (dhikr) is what reassures the heart of a believer and strengthens their resilience. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Anfaal (8), Verses 45: 

‘O you who are believers, when you come across an enemy (in battle), be steadfast (in your resolve); and remember Allah (Almighty) excessively, so that you may attain victory (over your enemies).’ 

This verse reminds us that steadfastness, combined with the remembrance of Allah, is a key to success in any difficult situation. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also taught that strength is a beloved quality. 

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

‘A strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than a weak believer, although there is good in both.’ 

This aligns with the principle of teaching children grounding phrases that can strengthen their inner confidence and their reliance on the support of Allah Almighty during stressful moments. Encouraging your child to internalise a grounding phrase that is infused with a sense of calm and faith mirrors the beautiful spiritual practice of turning to Allah for comfort. It helps them to navigate uncertainty, maintain their composure, and cultivate a quiet confidence that both their heart and their mind are always supported.