How can I support my child in setting study goals they can reach? 

Parenting Perspective 

Starting with Shared Conversations 

Helping your child set achievable study goals starts with shared conversations and gentle guidance. Ask open-ended questions like, ‘What would you like to get better at this week?’ This might include things like improving handwriting, reading a Surah with fluency, finishing a book, or solving sums more confidently. The key is to let your child lead while you offer structure and clarity. When goals come from within, rather than being imposed, motivation increases naturally.

 

Breaking Goals into Small Steps and Using Visual Tools 

Break each goal into smaller weekly steps. For example, if your child wants to learn a Surah, begin with just two lines per day. Use visual tools such as charts, colourful stickers, or goal jars to track progress visibly. These tangible cues make effort feel rewarding and help children see the link between commitment and achievement. Revisit the goals at the end of each week. Celebrate what has gone well and adjust what needs refining. Allow your child to reflect on what felt easy and what felt challenging. 

Keeping the Tone Light and Affirming 

Keep the tone light and affirming. Say things like, ‘I noticed you kept practising even when it was tricky,’ or ‘You chose a goal and stuck with it, that shows real strength.’ Over time, these experiences help your child internalise discipline, reflection, and achievement, all without fear of failure. The message they receive is simple: growth is always possible, and their efforts matter. 

Spiritual Insight 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hashar (59), Verse 18: 

“All those of you who are believers, seek piety from Allah (Almighty); and let every person anticipate (the consequences of) what they have sent forth (in the Hereafter) for the next day… “

This Verse gently reminds us that accountability and foresight are part of a believer’s life. Teaching children to set meaningful goals aligns beautifully with this spiritual principle. It nurtures an awareness of purpose and direction, not just in academics, but in all areas of life. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 2646, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

“He who travels a path in search of knowledge, Allah will make easy for him a path to Paradise. “

When your child sets out to learn, even in small ways, they are not only building skills, but walking a path of reward. Let them know that every honest effort to improve themselves, whether in Dunya or Deen, is cherished by Allah Almighty. 

By helping your child set personal, reachable study goals, you are embedding in them a mindset rooted in intention, action, and reflection. These are not just educational practices, they are spiritual disciplines. When children learn to plan, strive, and reassess with sincerity, they carry these habits into their Salah, their character, and their future. Through your gentle guidance, study becomes more than a task, it becomes a meaningful journey of growth and connection with Allah Almighty.