Parenting Perspective 

For a sensitive child, a simple disagreement can feel like a deep personal criticism, causing them to withdraw or become very upset. They often struggle to separate a challenge to their idea from a challenge to their worth. Our role is to gently teach them resilience, showing them that it is possible for people to see things differently while still loving and respecting one another. 

Normalise Disagreement as a Part of Life 

Use simple, everyday examples to show that differences are normal and safe. You can say, ‘I love spicy food and Daddy does not, but we still love each other very much. It is okay for people to like different things.’ This normalises differing opinions in a non-threatening way. 

Separate the Action from the Person 

Teach them to use ‘I’ statements and to focus on the behaviour, not the person. Coach them, and their siblings, to say things like, ‘I felt sad when you did not share,’ instead of ‘You are mean.’ This simple shift in language is a powerful tool for reducing personal attacks. 

Praise Their Emotional Resilience 

When you see your child handle a disagreement without becoming overly distressed, acknowledge their growth. You could say, ‘I know that was a difficult conversation, and I am so proud of how you stayed calm and explained your feelings.’ 

Build Their Confidence in Conflict 

By consistently teaching these skills, you are helping them build confidence in conflict. They learn that a disagreement is not a threat to a relationship, but a problem that can be navigated with the right tools. This builds the resilience they need to handle life’s challenges. 

This approach helps them maintain their gentle nature while developing the strength to stand up for their own ideas. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam provides a beautiful framework for managing disagreements. It teaches that while differences of opinion will always exist, the bond of brotherhood and sisterhood must be protected through gentle speech and mutual respect. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 10: 

‘Indeed, the believers are brothers (to each other); so, make peace with your brothers; and seek piety from Allah (Almighty) so that you may receive His Mercy.’ 

This verse establishes the unbreakable bond of brotherhood as the default state for believers. It teaches that the primary goal in any disagreement should be to ‘make settlement’ and preserve that bond, an act that invites divine mercy. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2564, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘A Muslim is the brother of a Muslim. He neither oppresses him nor humiliates him nor looks down upon him.’ 

This hadith sets out the clear rights of a fellow Muslim. It forbids humiliation and looking down upon others, which are often the emotional consequences of a poorly handled disagreement. It commands us to protect the dignity of others at all times. 

By teaching your sensitive child that disagreement does not equal rejection, you root their resilience in both emotional security and Islamic values. Over time, they will learn that they can stand firm in their opinions while still preserving love, respect, and dignity.