How can siblings practise taking turns without constant intervention from me? 

Parenting Perspective 

Siblings often require guidance to learn how to share and take turns, but intervening constantly can prevent them from developing this skill independently. The goal is to provide a clear structure that empowers them to manage turn-taking on their own, while still feeling supported by you. 

Set Clear Expectations 

Before a shared activity begins, agree on simple and specific rules together. This could be ‘five turns each’ or ‘we switch over when the timer beeps.’ Having clear, upfront expectations removes uncertainty and reduces the potential for arguments. 

Use Visual or Audible Cues 

A kitchen timer, a sand timer, or even a short, familiar song can serve as an impartial signal for when a turn should change. Using an external cue like a timer shifts the authority away from you and onto the agreed-upon system, making it easier for children to accept and follow. 

Praise Cooperative Moments 

When you notice your children managing to take turns without your help, be sure to acknowledge it. A simple, positive comment like, ‘I really noticed how patiently you waited for your turn just now,’ reinforces the behaviour you want to encourage. 

By giving them the right tools and trusting them to use them, you help your children practise the essential life skills of fairness and self-regulation, which will benefit them far beyond their sibling interactions. 

Spiritual Insight 

Patience and fairness are virtues highly encouraged in Islam, especially within the context of family relationships. The simple act of learning to wait and give others their turn teaches children the profound values of respect and empathy. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Nahal (16), Verse 90: 

‘ Indeed, Allah (Almighty) orders you to promote justice and benevolence; and to be generous towards (positively developing) those that are within your jurisdiction; and to prevent that which is immoral, acts of irrationality, and cruelty…’ 

This verse reminds us that treating others with justice and fairness is a direct command from Allah and a cornerstone of a moral life. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 45, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘None of you [truly] believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.’ 

This foundational principle teaches us that true faith is reflected in our ability to care for the needs and rights of others as much as we care for our own. 

When siblings learn to take turns fairly without constant supervision, they are not only building their own self-control but are also putting into practice the vital Islamic values of justice and compassion.