What plan prevents repeated stealing of sibling snacks? 

Parenting Perspective 

When a child repeatedly takes a sibling’s snacks, the issue is rarely about food alone. It often reflects deeper feelings such as jealousy, a lack of impulse control, or a perceived sense of unfairness. Instead of reacting with anger, it is helpful to pause and observe. By identifying the root cause, you can shift your approach from punishing to teaching. 

Once emotions have settled, speak gently and directly: ‘You seem to like your brother’s treats. What makes his seem different from yours?’ This question invites a conversation rather than defensiveness. The goal is to help your child recognise that the problem is not hunger, but the choice to take something without asking. This shift builds emotional maturity and responsibility. 

Replace Punishment with Structure 

Children often repeat behaviour when boundaries are unclear or inconsistent. A predictable and fair routine can prevent many issues. 

• Designated Storage: Store each child’s snacks in clearly labelled containers or dedicated spaces. 

• Clear Routine: Set specific snack times so they know when to expect food. 

• Shared Options: Keep some shared snacks visible and available for everyone. 

When a rule is broken, address it calmly and consistently: ‘You took what was not yours. That breaks trust. How can we fix it?’ Allow them to return or replace the snack and help prepare the next day’s portion. This process links accountability to action, teaching them that mistakes can be repaired with honesty and effort. 

Reinforce Honesty and Self-Control 

Children need recognition for doing the right thing, not only correction for doing the wrong thing. When your child resists temptation or admits a mistake truthfully, praise their effort: ‘I noticed you asked before taking that. That was very respectful.’ Each acknowledgement strengthens their willpower. Over time, your calm boundaries and appreciation for honesty create a home culture where trust feels rewarding, and taking things without permission loses its appeal. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, fairness (adl) and Amanah (trust) are sacred values, even in the smallest of family matters. Teaching a child to respect another’s food is part of nurturing the moral discipline that Allah Almighty loves. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Mutaffifeen (83), Verses 1-3: 

‘Woe be to those fraudsters (who shortchange people in their material dealings).Those people when they account (for receipts) from people, they demand it in full. And when they account (for debts) upon them, or (they have to pay) by weight, they cause a loss (to the other).’ 

Although this verse was revealed in the context of trade, its essence applies within families. Integrity is not limited to business but extends to everyday fairness. A child who learns to take only what is rightfully theirs is learning spiritual honesty, a quality that protects both their faith and their relationships. 

The teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also emphasise the importance of trust. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 102, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Whoever deceives us is not one of us.’ 

This statement was made when the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ discovered a merchant hiding wet grain beneath dry grain to mislead buyers. His words show how deeply Islam forbids deceit in any form. Even a small act of secretly taking food fits within this moral lesson, as deception weakens Imaan (faith) and erodes trust. 

Explain to your child that honesty is not just about obeying parents; it is about being truthful before Allah Almighty, who sees every secret act. Encourage them to seek forgiveness if they have taken what was not theirs and reassure them that Allah loves those who repent sincerely. By being patient and connecting these lessons to faith, you help your child see self-restraint as an act of honour, not a restriction. When fairness is modelled daily, the home becomes a place where Amanah grows naturally, and trust becomes the strongest bond between siblings.