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How can I help my child feel emotionally secure when starting school or daycare? 

Parenting Perspective

Uncertainty is inevitable during transitions. Give your child age-appropriate, truthful explanations to help them emotionally prepare. If at all feasible, visit the location beforehand. To provide predictability, establish farewell traditions, such as an embrace, a Dua, or a unique statement. Confirm their emotions by saying, ‘It is okay to miss me; I will miss you too.’ Stealthily leaving can undermine trust. Allow them to share at their own speed and reestablish concentrated attention after school. Their inner sense of security is increased by your cool, steady answer.  

Spiritual Insight

Trust in Allah Almighty is linked to trust in separation. Show your child that Allah Almighty is always with them, even when you are not with them. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hadeed (57), Verse 4: ‘… He is always with you wherever you are…’ It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3371, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ would recite protective Duas for children, such as: ‘Holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to seek refuge with Allah Almighty for Al Hassan (RA) and Al Hussain (RA) and say: ‘Your forefather (i.e. Abraham) used to seek refuge with Allah Almighty for Ismaeel (AS) and Ishaaq (AS) by reciting the following: ‘O Allah Almighty! I seek refuge with Your Perfect Words from every devil and from poisonous pests and from every evil, harmful, envious eye.’’ Teaching this with compassion strengthens safety through faith as much as through you.  

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