How can I praise waiting well so it becomes a point of pride? 

Parenting Perspective 

Children often see waiting as boring or unfair, but when you highlight it as an achievement, they begin to value it as a strength. Praise that focuses on effort and character, not just the outcome, turns patience into something your child feels proud of. 

Be Specific With Praise 

Generic words like “Good job” are less effective than naming the behaviour. This helps your child know exactly what you value. 

• ‘You waited calmly for your turn. That showed real patience.’ 

• ‘I noticed you kept your hands to yourself while we stood in line. That was respectful.’ 

Link Waiting to Positive Identity 

Help them see patience as part of who they are becoming. Identity-based praise builds long-term motivation. 

• ‘You waited like a big kid today.’ 

• ‘That is what responsible children do; they stay calm even when it is hard.’ 

Share Success Publicly (Gently) 

Mention their effort to a sibling or another family member later. This shows them that patience is a trait worth celebrating. 

• ‘He waited so well in the shop today, it made me really proud.’ 

Celebrate Small Wins 

Even short moments of calm deserve recognition. Over time, small wins build pride in their growing ability. 

• ‘You waited for two minutes without fuss. That is a big step forward.’ 

A mini-dialogue example: 

Child: (waits quietly in the doctor’s office) 

Parent: ‘I loved how you sat so patiently. That showed respect and strength. You should be proud of yourself.’ 

Spiritual Insight 

Praising waiting well is not just about behaviour, but about teaching children that patience is a quality honoured in Islam. By praising it, you connect their small actions to a bigger spiritual purpose. 

Patience Leads to Reward 

This reminds us that patience brings Allah Almighty’s support, making it a true source of pride. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Anfaal (8), Verse 46: 

‘And obey Allah (Almighty) and His Prophet (Muhammad ﷺ), and do not dispute (with each other) as it may weaken (your ranks), and would reduce your strength, and show resilience; indeed, Allah (Almighty) it is with those people who are resilient.’ 

The Prophet ﷺ on Good Character 

This teaches us that patience in waiting is not a small matter; it is part of good character, which perfects faith. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, 1162, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The most complete of the believers in faith is the one with the best character.’ 

By praising waiting well, you help your child feel proud not just of pleasing you, but of embodying patience, respect, and good character. Over time, they learn that waiting calmly is not weakness, but a mark of strength in both family life and faith.