Parenting Perspective 

Select a Range of Role Models 

Showing your child role models from Islamic history is an effective way to inspire them with examples of strength, faith, and good character. You can start by selecting a range of figures who represent the different qualities you want your child to emulate, such as courage, kindness, wisdom, and humility. You can begin by sharing stories of prominent figures like the companions of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. For example, ‘The companions of the Prophet ﷺ, like Abu Bakr (RA), were incredibly strong in their faith. They taught us that kindness, honesty, and dedication to Allah’s path are what make someone truly great.’ 

Explain That Role Models are Not Perfect 

It is important to explain to your child that these role models were not perfect, but that their actions and their faith are worth learning from. ‘These great figures had their own struggles, but they always tried to do what was right. They faced their challenges with patience, and that is something we can all learn from.’ 

Encourage Reflection and Application 

Encourage your child to think about what qualities they admire in these role models. You can ask them, ‘What do you like most about the way the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ treated others? Or how do you think Fatimah (RA) showed her kindness and strength?’ This helps them to internalise the lessons and to understand that these qualities are valuable in their own lives. Finally, you can encourage your child to apply the positive traits of these role models in their own daily life. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, role models are meant to inspire us to live righteous and moral lives. Allah Almighty says in the noble Quran at Surah Al Ahzaab (33), Verse 21: 

‘Indeed, there is for you (O mankind) in (the (personality) of) the Messenger of Allah (Almighty) (Prophet Muhammad ﷺ), an outstanding example of incredible benevolence; it is for those people that have hope in Allah (Almighty) and the Day of Judgement, and (desire) to remember Allah (Almighty) excessively.’ 

This verse reminds us that the life and actions of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ are the ultimate example for us to follow. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself exemplified the qualities that make for a good role model, such as patience, honesty, and compassion. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3587, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘The best of you are those who are the best to their families.’ 

This Hadith highlights that by showing your child these role models from Islamic history, you are guiding them to follow the same values of kindness, integrity, and faith.