Parenting Perspective 

Children often hesitate to share what happens at school because they are afraid of being judged or misunderstood. To encourage honesty, parents must create an environment of trust where speaking up feels safe. 

Build Communication Rituals and Listen Without Judgment 

Create a daily communication ritual, such as a few minutes at bedtime, where your child knows they have your undivided attention. When your child does share something, it is crucial to listen fully without immediately jumping in to correct them. A simple response like, ‘Thank you for trusting me with that,’ validates their courage and encourages them to remain open with you. 

Teach Them the Value of Speaking Up 

Gently explain that when they share what is happening at school, it allows you to help and protect them. Frame it positively: ‘When you tell me about a problem, we can find a solution to it together.’ This shows them that honesty leads to solutions, not just to getting into trouble. It empowers them to see you as their ally. 

Keep Incidents in Perspective and Respond Fairly 

If your child confesses to a mistake, your reaction is key. Overly harsh punishments will only teach them to hide things in the future. Instead, focus on problem-solving and learning from the situation. By offering steady reassurance and measured responses, you create an environment where honesty about school becomes a natural habit rather than a fearful confession. 

Spiritual Insight 

Do Not Conceal the Truth 

Islam encourages openness and warns against concealing the truth, as this can cause harm and is considered a sin of the heart. Teaching children to speak honestly about what they witness is part of nurturing a pure and truthful character. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 283: 

‘…And do not conceal any evidence, and whoever conceals (such evidence) then indeed, he is sinful from his heart; and Allah (Almighty) is Omniscient with everything that you do.’ 

Truthfulness Brings Tranquillity 

The prophetic tradition teaches that truthfulness brings a sense of peace and inner calm, whereas lying or hiding things creates anxiety and doubt. This is a powerful motivator for a child to choose honesty, as it leads to their own peace of mind. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, 2518, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Truthfulness is tranquillity, while lying is doubt.’ 

Honesty as Courage, Peace, and Faith 

By linking the importance of honesty at school to the trust you have at home and the commands of Allah, you help your child reframe what it means to speak up. They learn that it is not about ‘getting into trouble,’ but is instead an act of courage, a path to peace, and an expression of faith.