Parenting Perspective 

Acquiring a new skill, like tying shoelaces or writing, can be particularly challenging for children. At this stage, their wish for independence frequently surpasses their existing skills. This gap can cause emotional stress, resulting in crying, refusal, or even outbursts. It is important for parents to distinguish between making progress and achieving perfection. Rather than hurrying to complete the task on their behalf, provide steady support and divide the task into smaller, more manageable parts. Recognise their emotions and mirror them: ‘It can be challenging when things require time, but your learning process is important.’ 

Supporting Frustration Tolerance Gradually 

• Break tasks into clear, bite-sized steps 

• Use encouraging phrases such as ‘Give it another shot’ or ‘Let us pause for a moment’ 

• Focus on acknowledging effort, not just results 

• Help your child frame challenges as opportunities to grow 

Frustration tolerance is a skill that develops over time through experience. By maintaining a peaceful and encouraging atmosphere, your child will learn to see difficulties not as reasons for shame but as phases for resilience and growth. 

Spiritual Insight 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Inshirah (94), Verses 5–6: 

Thus with (every) hardship there is facilitation (from Allah Almighty). Indeed, with (every) hardship there is facilitation (from Allah Almighty). 

This repeated promise reassures both parent and child that struggle is accompanied by ease. Experiencing frustration during learning does not indicate failure, but marks a natural step in progress. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5645, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

If Allah wants to do good to somebody, He afflicts him with trials. 

The learning process in a child is a gentle reflection of that divine wisdom. A parent who responds with patience and encouragement rather than pressure witnesses real growth. Offer short Duas such as Rabbi yassir wa la tu’assir (O my Lord, make it easy and do not make it difficult). In these moments, spiritual support becomes a cornerstone of confidence in themselves and in Allah Almighty’s plan.