How do I handle recurring ‘forgot my kit’ excuses for PE? 

Parenting Perspective 

Hearing ‘I forgot my kit again’ week after week can be exasperating. You may wonder whether your child is being careless, is trying to avoid physical activity, or is simply testing boundaries. Repeatedly ‘forgetting’ usually reflects avoidance, disorganisation, or some form of emotional resistance, rather than genuine forgetfulness. The aim is not to punish the lapse, but to uncover what is driving it, while steadily teaching responsibility and accountability. 

Look Beneath the Excuse to Find the Cause 

Children often hide their discomfort behind the excuse of ‘forgetting’. Ask yourself and your child calmly: 

‘What happens on PE days that might make you forget your kit?’ 

You might discover underlying issues, such as embarrassment about their ability, discomfort with changing in front of peers, a fear of underperforming, or a conflict with teammates. Once you identify the cause, you can guide your child with empathy instead of frustration. Sometimes, a child’s sense of emotional safety must be addressed before they can take on practical responsibilities. 

Teach Practical Organisation Instead of Just Reminding 

Instead of simply repeating ‘Do not forget your kit’, build systems that support your child’s memory and provide structure. 

• Keep a visible checklist near their school bag. 

• Prepare the kit the night before and place it by the door. 

• Involve your child in the process by asking, ‘What is your plan for remembering your kit tomorrow?’ 

When children participate in creating their own routines, they are more likely to internalise a sense of ownership. Consistency teaches independence far better than lectures do. 

Reframe Physical Education in a Positive Light 

If avoidance is part of the issue, shift the focus from competition to wellbeing. Discuss the benefits of movement, such as strength, energy, and gratitude for the body that Allah Almighty has blessed them with. Connect the activity to enjoyment, not just performance. When children see PE as a space for growth rather than judgement, the excuses to avoid it often fade away naturally. 

Spiritual Insight 

Responsibility is both a moral and a spiritual value in Islam. Teaching a child to honour their commitments, even one as small as bringing a PE kit to school, lays the foundation for integrity, reliability, and gratitude for their health. 

Accountability in the Noble Quran 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Israa (17), Verse 36: 

‘And do not pursue (to meddle in matters) with which you have no knowledge; indeed, your hearing (everything you heard), your sight (everything you observed), your conscience (everything you thought), in fact, all of these (your faculties) shall be called for questioning (on the Day of Judgment).’ 

This verse reminds us that awareness and accountability are sacred trusts. Habitual forgetfulness can reflect a lack of mindfulness. Teaching a child to prepare for their day and to take responsibility for their belongings nurtures a consciousness that extends far beyond the classroom. It fosters an understanding that every action is observed and carries weight before Allah Almighty. 

Reliability and Trust in the Teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ 

It is recorded in Sunan Nisai, Hadith 5021, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The signs of a hypocrite are three: when he speaks, he lies; when he promises, he breaks his promise; and when he is entrusted, he betrays the trust.’ 

This Hadith highlights that fulfilling small responsibilities is a part of faith itself. By guiding your child to keep their word and to bring what they need for class, you are cultivating amanah, the quality of trustworthiness. Even in small daily habits, a believer’s reliability is a reflection of their spiritual integrity. 

Each ‘I forgot my kit’ moment is an opportunity to strengthen both discipline and faith. When you replace scolding with calm problem solving, you teach mindfulness. When you connect organisation to gratitude and trustworthiness, you turn a routine task into an act of spiritual growth. Through your steady example, your child will begin to see preparation not as a chore, but as a sign of respect for their teacher, their peers, and for the body that Allah Almighty has entrusted to their care.