Parenting Perspective 

Acknowledge and Praise Their Passion 

Helping your child to feel proud of their natural interests involves reinforcing their unique qualities and encouraging them to pursue what they genuinely enjoy. You can start by acknowledging their interests and praising their passion. Whether your child enjoys sports, the arts, reading, or any other activity, make sure to celebrate their interests as part of their identity. You could say, ‘I am really proud of how much you enjoy [the activity]. It is amazing to see you so passionate about it!’ 

Encourage Full Exploration 

Encourage your child to explore their interests fully, even if those interests do not always align with societal gender expectations. You can remind them that what they love doing is valuable and worthwhile, regardless of whether others understand or appreciate it. ‘You do not have to fit into a particular box. Your interests are part of what makes you unique, and they are worth pursuing.’ 

Connect Interests to a Fulfilling Future 

Help your child to see that following their interests can be both fulfilling and empowering. You can encourage them to engage with like-minded peers or mentors who share similar interests. ‘There are so many people who share your love for [the activity], and they have built amazing careers or hobbies around it. You can do that too if you continue to follow your heart.’ Finally, you can reinforce that Allah has given each person unique abilities and interests, and it is a blessing to be able to pursue what brings joy and fulfilment. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, every individual is encouraged to embrace their unique qualities and to use their abilities for good. Allah Almighty says in the noble Quran at Surah Al Mulk (67), Verse 15: 

‘It is He who has made for you the Earth subservient (to your needs); so, walk (freely) amongst its marvels; and eat of the nourishment He has provided for you…’ 

This verse teaches that every talent, interest, or skill is a gift from Allah, and we should embrace it with gratitude and use it for the benefit of ourselves and others. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also emphasised the importance of self-confidence and of pursuing one’s interests in accordance with good character. 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 our natural talents and interests are important, and that they should be developed and used to enhance our lives and our relationships. By helping your child to feel proud of their natural interests, you are fostering a sense of self-worth and purpose that is grounded in the values of Islam.