Parenting Perspective 

Although school trips are intended to be enjoyable and educational, they can become a source of stress for children from modest backgrounds when they highlight differences in wealth. Seeing who can afford the best snacks, gadgets, or souvenirs can magnify social divides, leaving some children feeling excluded or embarrassed. 

The Emotional Strain of Feeling Inferior 

A child may feel a sense of shame if their packed lunch or pocket money does not compare to what their peers have. This feeling of being ‘less than’ can harm their confidence, making them reluctant to participate fully and enjoy the experience. 

The Pressure of Social Comparison 

The environment of a school trip can intensify social pressures. Some children may feel compelled to ask their parents for more money simply to keep up and fit in. Others might withdraw from activities to avoid the embarrassment of not being able to afford what their friends are buying. In these situations, the joy of learning is overshadowed by financial comparison. 

The Risk of Fostering Resentment 

When wealth differences are on display, children may begin to resent classmates who can spend freely. They may also feel frustrated with their own families, wrongly associating a parent’s love or care with the ability to provide expensive things. 

Helping Children Navigate These Situations 

Parents can prepare their children to handle these moments with confidence. 

• Explain beforehand that true value is found in enjoying the experience with gratitude, not in how much money is spent. 

• Instil a sense of confidence in simplicity, for example, by framing a thoughtfully packed lunch as something special and made with love. 

• Reassure them afterwards that their worth is not lessened by not having what wealthier peers might have. 

This approach builds resilience, allowing children to focus on creating happy memories rather than on making social comparisons. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that differences in wealth are a natural part of life and a test from Allah, but a person’s dignity and value are never dependent on their possessions. The stress that arises from social comparison can be eased by cultivating gratitude, humility, and a firm understanding of what truly matters in life. 

The Quranic Reminder of True Value 

The Quran redirects our focus away from worldly status, reminding us that a person’s true nobility is determined by their character and piety. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 13: 

‘…Indeed, the best of you in the judgement of Allah (Almighty) is the one who is most virtuous…’ 

This verse teaches us that our honour in the sight of Allah comes from righteousness, a quality that has no connection to wealth. 

Prophetic Guidance on Fostering Gratitude 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ gave practical advice on how to protect the heart from feelings of envy and discontent by focusing on gratitude. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2963, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Look at those who are lower than you and do not look at those who are above you, for this will make you appreciate the blessings of Allah upon you.’ 

This powerful teaching is a direct tool to cultivate gratitude and find peace with what one has been given. 

By grounding children in gratitude and reminding them that wealth does not define a person’s worth, parents can shield them from the stress of social comparison. This nurtures humility and resilience, ensuring that experiences like school trips become opportunities for learning and friendship, rather than events that highlight financial divides.