Parenting Perspective 

Create a Safe Space to Talk 

When a teacher reports that your child was cheating but your child denies it, your response must balance trust with accountability. The first step is to create a calm, private space to talk. Avoid opening with an accusation; instead, say something like, ‘Your teacher contacted me about something today, and I really want to hear your side of the story.’ This communicates a willingness to listen and can reduce defensiveness. 

Explore Without Immediate Judgment 

If your child admits to the mistake, thank them for their honesty before you discuss the behaviour itself. If they continue to deny it, you can shift the conversation to the general principle: explain that cheating is harmful because it prevents real learning and breaks trust. This keeps the door open for a future confession while still making it clear that dishonesty is unacceptable. Reassure them that you are there to help them succeed without needing shortcuts. 

Teach Responsibility and Repair 

If the cheating is confirmed, it is important to guide your child towards making amends. This could involve apologising to the teacher or redoing the assignment. Emphasise that a single mistake does not define them, but that taking responsibility is a sign of strong character. Praise any steps they take to rectify the situation, so they learn to see this as a path to growth, not shame. 

Spiritual Insight 

Stand Firm for Justice, Even Against Yourself 

Islam commands believers to uphold justice and to be truthful witnesses, even if it means testifying against oneself or one’s own family. This powerful principle teaches us that honesty must be upheld, even when it is difficult. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Maaidah (5), Verse 8: 

‘You who are believers, become steadfast (in your devotion) to Allah (Almighty), corroborating all of that which is just; and never let your hatred of any nation prevent you from being just, – let justice prevail…’ 

Truthfulness Leads to Paradise 

The prophetic tradition makes it clear that the path of truthfulness is the path of righteousness that leads to Paradise. By encouraging our children to be honest, even when they have made a mistake, we are guiding them on this blessed path. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, 1971, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise Falsehood leads to wickedness, and wickedness leads to the Fire.’ 

Admitting Mistakes is a Sign of Strength 

When you connect incidents at school to core Islamic values, your child learns that admitting a mistake is not a weakness, but a sign of strength and faith. This approach builds their integrity, strengthens their trust in you as a parent, and reminds them that Allah always values sincerity over outward appearances.