Parenting Perspective 

Encourage His Creativity 

Supporting your son if he enjoys gentle activities or crafts involves encouraging his creativity and nurturing his interests without reinforcing outdated stereotypes. You can start by reassuring him that enjoying crafts, art, or any other gentle activity is just as valuable as physical play or sports. You could say, ‘I am really proud of your creativity! Whether it is playing football or making art, both are amazing ways to express yourself and to develop your skills.’ 

Broaden His Horizons 

Encourage him to explore his interests in different forms. You can help him to find activities that will both engage his creativity and give him a sense of accomplishment, such as painting, model building, or even learning to cook. This broadens his horizons while allowing him to feel confident in his preferences. You might suggest, ‘Why do not we try a new project, like building a model or designing something from scratch? That could be really fun.’ 

Connect with Like-Minded Peers 

You can support his involvement in community events or school clubs that celebrate creativity, such as art competitions or science fairs, so that he can connect with others who share his interests. ‘There is an art competition coming up. Perhaps you would like to submit something you have created. It is a great way to showcase your talent!’ Most importantly, it is essential to model support and open-mindedness in your approach to his interests, celebrating his creative spirit. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, the diversity of talents and interests is celebrated, and both boys and girls are encouraged to develop their strengths. Allah Almighty reminds us 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 highlights the importance of using the talents and abilities that Allah has given us to contribute positively to our own lives and to the world around us. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also valued creativity and the use of one’s abilities in productive ways. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3587, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The best of you are those who are the best to their families.’ 

This Hadith encourages us to embrace all forms of creativity, whether they are artistic, intellectual, or physical, as long as they align with good character and benefit others. By supporting your son in his gentle activities or crafts, you are helping him to develop skills and confidence that reflect the Islamic values of creativity, compassion, and responsibility.