What faith-based reminder helps siblings treat each other kindly? 

Parenting Perspective 

Kindness as an Act of Worship 

Sibling relationships are often a child’s first training ground for empathy, patience, and kindness. While disagreements are a natural part of growing up, repeated unkindness can seriously damage the trust between them. Faith-based reminders help children understand that kindness is not just about good manners but is a fundamental part of their identity as Muslims. 

You can frame kindness as an act of worship by reminding your children that every kind word or gentle gesture towards a sibling is seen by Allah Almighty. Saying, “When you are kind to each other, Allah rewards you,” shifts kindness from a mere duty to an act of devotion. 

Teaching the Golden Rule 

You should encourage them to ask themselves, “Would I want to be spoken to this way?” This simple reflection, when tied to Islamic teachings, helps siblings regulate their behaviour and build mutual respect. You can reinforce these positive actions with praise. When siblings show kindness, highlight it by saying, “That was a beautiful way to share; this is what Allah loves.” This type of praise, linked with their faith, nurtures consistency and meaning in their actions. 

By connecting kindness with worship, you make it more than a simple house rule; you make it a vital part of their faith journey. 

Spiritual Insight 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Nahal (16), Verse 90: 

‘Indeed, Allah (Almighty) orders you to promote justice and benevolence; and to be generous towards (positively developing) those that are within your jurisdiction; and to prevent that which is immoral, acts of irrationality, and cruelty…’ 

This verse reminds us that kindness to our family, especially siblings, is a direct command from Allah Almighty. 

It is recorded in Sunan Nisai, Hadith 5379, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The most merciful of people to the people are those who show mercy to their family.’ 

This teaches us that showing mercy and kindness to our siblings is a true reflection of our faith and a path to drawing closer to Allah Almighty. When you remind your children that kindness to their siblings is loved by Allah Almighty and was modelled by the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, you help them see their family bonds as sacred. They learn that respect, patience, and compassion are not just house rules but acts of faith, strengthening both their character and their connection to one another.