Parenting Perspective 

Although school fundraisers are organised with good intentions, they can unintentionally create emotional pressure for children from modest families. When pupils are asked to bring in donations or sell items, those from less affluent backgrounds may feel a sense of embarrassment if they are unable to contribute on the same level as their peers. 

The Feeling of Shame and Exclusion 

Children may worry about being judged if they bring in less money or fewer items than others. When fundraising success is publicly celebrated, children from modest families can be left feeling invisible or inferior, which damages their sense of belonging. 

The Risk of Peer Comparison 

The competitive nature of some fundraisers can be difficult for children to navigate. 

• They may face comments from peers about their family’s financial situation. 

• They might feel guilty or frustrated, blaming their parents for not being able to give more. 

• Some may even feel tempted to hide the truth about what their family can afford. 

Creating Emotional Strain at Home 

Fundraising events can create stress within the family unit. Children might pressure their parents to contribute more than they can comfortably afford, simply to avoid feeling embarrassed at school. This can strain relationships and teach children to associate generosity with public display rather than sincere intention. 

Helping Children to Cope with the Pressure 

Parents can guide their children through these situations with wisdom and reassurance. 

• Reassure them that giving is valued for sincerity, not quantity. 

• Explain that every type of contribution, including time and effort, is valuable. 

• Encourage them to participate in non-financial ways, such as by volunteering to help organise the event. 

• If a fundraising system seems to unintentionally shame children, consider speaking respectfully with the teachers or school leadership about its impact. 

This approach helps children understand that their dignity is not connected to how much their family can donate. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam places a strong emphasis on the sincerity behind an act of giving, rather than on the quantity. The social pressure created by some school fundraisers needs to be balanced with the Islamic principle that the most important factor in the sight of Allah is the purity of one’s intention, not the size of the donation. 

The Quranic Value of Sincere Giving 

The Quran teaches that Allah multiplies the reward for even the smallest acts of charity when they are given with a pure heart. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 261: 

‘ The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah (Almighty) is like the parable of a seed (of grain) which grows seven stems; on each stem is one hundred grains; and Allah (Almighty) multiplies (His reward to mankind seven hundred times per good deed or) even more for whom He (Allah Almighty) wills…’ 

This verse reminds us that the true value of a gift is in the blessing that Allah places within it. 

Prophetic Guidance on the Smallest Charity 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught that no act of charity is too small or insignificant if it is done for the sake of Allah. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 1417, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Protect yourself from the Fire, even with half of a date.’ 

This powerful hadith illustrates that even the most modest act of giving has immense worth and can be a means of salvation. 

By teaching children that generosity is measured by sincerity and effort, not by competition, parents can protect them from social pressure and feelings of shame. Children can then grow with the confidence that their small, heartfelt contributions are honoured by Allah, which nurtures humility, gratitude, and resilience.