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How can siblings be included in emotional bonding without making any child feel left out?

Parenting Perspective

The objective of sibling emotional bonding is to make each child feel equally valued, not to treat them all the same. Start by praising their special qualities out loud, such as ‘I love how you think deeply’ or ‘Your smile brings so much joy to our family.’ Rotate ‘special time’ with each child individually so that group dynamics are not the only factor in fostering emotional intimacy. Encourage common customs that prioritise cooperation over rivalry, such as baking together, family gatherings, or storytelling after Maghrib. During emotional moments, guide siblings gently: ‘Let us listen quietly while your sister shares her feelings.’. Then affirm that listening itself is an act of kindness: ‘Thank you for respecting her voice.’ In families, emotional connectedness is about belonging, not just being together. Empathy grows and envy lessens when every youngster feels included. Being included is not a given. It is a conscious parenting practice that values connection.

Spiritual Insight

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ modelled compassion among companions and family members alike. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 10:
‘Indeed, the believers are brothers (to each other); so, make peace with your brothers.’
It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3671, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
‘Be kind to your children, and perfect their manners.’
Children learn that everyone matters and that love is shared rather than divided through bonding based on mercy. You are raising a family in accordance with the prophetic character when you teach siblings to respect one another’s feelings and show affection for one another. Mercy-based inclusion does not equate to diluted love. Rahmah is shared, and its effects last for many generations.

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