Can daily affirmations or calm rituals help children feel more secure?
Parenting Perspective
Daily affirmations and calming rituals can be effective methods for supporting a child’s emotional well-being, especially during moments when they may experience tantrums or emotional outbursts. These rituals provide a sense of stability, which is especially crucial for young children as they are still learning to manage their emotions. Calm activities, like having a regular bedtime routine or taking a moment for quiet reflection in the morning, can help indicate to a child’s mind and body that it is safe to move from one part of the day to the next. When done consistently, these practices create a sense of predictability, which can significantly lessen feelings of anxiety or being overwhelmed. Simple and age-appropriate affirmations can help strengthen a child’s sense of self-worth and ability. Using phrases like ‘I can try again’ or ‘Today is a new day’ helps build emotional strength and encourages the child to approach challenges with optimism. It is important to stay calm, consistent, and patient when carrying out these rituals, as children are very aware of the tone and emotional state of those caring for them.
Spiritual Insight
Islamic tradition encourages remembrance (Dhikr), structure, and intentional routines as part of daily life, all of which align beautifully with the use of calm rituals and affirmations in parenting. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Ra’ad (13), Verse 28: ‘Indeed, it is only with the remembrance of Allah (Almighty) that one can (and does) find peace of mind and heart.’ This verse highlights that achieving spiritual calm is not just feasible, but it is also connected to the practices of remembering and reflecting. Encouraging a child to start or finish the day with a brief Dua or a moment of quiet thankfulness helps to foster emotional stability and a sense of spiritual connection. Islam highlights the significance of words and intentions. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Israa (17), Verse 53: ‘And informed My servants that they should speak in only the most politest manner (when they speak to the extremists in disbelief) ….’ This instruction affirms the role of positive, well-intentioned speech as a shaping force in our lives and relationships.
It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6405, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated:
‘Whoever says, ‘Subhan Allah wa bihamdihi,’ one hundred times a day, will be forgiven all his sins even if they were as much as the foam of the sea.’ This Hadith shows that even brief acts of remembrance can provide significant spiritual advantages. Instructing children to use brief expressions of appreciation and praise not only promotes their tranquilly but also fosters a connection to Allah Almighty in simple, approachable ways. By engaging in these simple practices, parents can establish the principles of Tawakkul (trust in Allah Almighty), Sabr (patience), and a sense of inner peace.
