Parenting Perspective 

Children frequently assess themselves against their friends, especially regarding issues of fairness. When gifts cause feelings of jealousy or anger, it often reflects deeper needs such as feeling valued, acknowledged, or treated equitably, a dynamic common among siblings or peers. 

Begin by recognising their feelings without encouraging entitlement: I understand that you feel excluded. Let us discuss that. Help them name their emotion and direct it towards understanding through practical actions, such as: 

• composing a card for the gift recipient 

• working together to make a small treat 

Within families, it is essential to give each child individual attention and establish shared traditions that reinforce their value. These routines teach children to navigate envy with grace, promote joy for others, and strengthen self-esteem rooted in love and belonging. 

Spiritual Insight 

Allah Almighty reminds us in Surah Al Nisa (4), Verse 32: 

‘And do not begrudge what benefactions have been given by Allah (Almighty), some of you instead of others; for the men is a share of what they have earnt (through their hard work), and for the women, is a share of what they have earnt (through their hard work)…. ‘

This verse fosters inner contentment and guides us to see provision as divinely allocated, discouraging comparison. 

It is narrated in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 4210 that the Holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Envy consumes good deeds just as fire consumes wood… ‘

Share this lesson with your child gently, helping them understand that harbouring jealousy harms their inner peace. 

Offer a reflective phrase to say together: 

• Allahumma qanni’ni bima razaqtani (O Allah, make me content with what You have provided me.) 

This spiritual practice fosters gratitude and reduces the tendency to compare, guiding children toward emotional maturity and faith-focused joy.