How do I explain to my child why waiting is important when everything else in their life is instant? 

Parenting Perspective 

In a world where games, messages, and videos are available instantly, the concept of waiting can feel frustrating or even pointless to a child. However, learning to wait is what develops patience, self-control, and emotional maturity. These are all essential skills for navigating the real world. 

Use Relatable Examples 

Connect the concept of waiting to experiences they already understand and enjoy. For example, you could say, ‘Remember when we planted those seeds? We had to water them and wait patiently for weeks before we saw them grow.’ Tangible, real-world examples make the value of patience much more concrete. 

Show the Rewards of Waiting 

Highlight instances where waiting led to a better outcome. This could be saving up for a special toy they really wanted, or the satisfaction of preparing a delicious meal together instead of getting instant fast food. This helps them to see that patience often leads to greater rewards. 

Model Patience Yourself 

Allow your child to see you choosing to wait, and briefly explain why. For instance, ‘I could check my phone right now, but I want to finish this conversation with you first because it is important to me.’ Pairing your actions with a simple explanation makes the lesson real and observable. 

By framing waiting as a valuable skill rather than a restriction, you show your child that it is a strength that enriches both their experiences and their character. 

Spiritual Insight 

Patience, or sabr, is a central virtue in Islam, woven into the fabric of faith, relationships, and personal growth. Teaching children the art of waiting nurtures not only their emotional resilience but also their spiritual discipline. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Zumar (39), Verse 10: 

‘…Indeed, those people that were resilient shall be rewarded with what is their due, without any limitations”.‘ 

This reminds us that the virtue of patience brings with it immeasurable blessings and is valued immensely by Allah Almighty. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 4032, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The believer who mixes with people and endures their harm with patience will have a greater reward than the one who does not mix with people and does not endure their harm.’ 

This teaches us that patience is not a passive state but an active and noble choice that strengthens our faith and character, especially in our interactions with others. 

By helping your child learn to embrace waiting as a necessary and rewarding part of life, you are building a habit of patience that will benefit them in this world and, God willing, earn them great reward in the next.