How do I handle repair when I made a mistake in front of guests? 

Parenting Perspective 

Making a mistake in front of guests, particularly when your child is present, can feel exposing. While it is natural to feel embarrassed or self-conscious, these moments offer a valuable opportunity to model responsibility, humility, and grace for your child. Navigating these situations with composure teaches your child important life skills, such as how to handle errors with dignity. 

Acknowledge the Mistake Calmly 

When you err in the presence of others, acknowledging it openly and sincerely can resolve any awkwardness. More importantly, it demonstrates to your child that mistakes are not something to be concealed but are opportunities for growth. 

You might say: ‘I made a mistake, and I am sorry. I will correct it.’ 

This simple admission shows that making mistakes is a normal part of life and that taking accountability is a sign of true strength and integrity. 

Reassure Your Child and Normalise Errors 

It is equally important to reassure your child in these moments. Let them know that what matters is not the mistake itself, but the effort made to rectify it. This builds their resilience and emotional intelligence. 

You could explain: ‘It is okay to make mistakes; what is important is that we try to fix them.’ 

By framing it this way, you teach your child that their errors, and yours, do not define them. Instead, the focus is on learning and improving from the experience. 

Take Corrective Action with Grace 

After acknowledging the mistake, take prompt and calm steps to correct it. Whether this involves clarifying a misunderstanding with your guests or adjusting your own behaviour, your composure is key. This reinforces your words with meaningful action. 

You could say: ‘Let me correct that now. Thank you for your understanding.’ 

This action not only resolves the immediate issue but also demonstrates to your child and your guests the maturity required to handle missteps thoughtfully and effectively. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam places great emphasis on humility and accountability, particularly when we make mistakes. The ability to show grace in the face of our own shortcomings is considered a virtue and a reflection of a strong character. 

Embracing Humility and Divine Mercy 

The noble Quran reminds us that no error is too great to be forgiven by Allah Almighty and that His mercy is always available to those who seek it. Correcting our actions is therefore not just for the benefit of our relationships but is also an act of seeking divine forgiveness. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Zumar (39), Verse 53: 

‘ Say (O Prophet Muhammad ﷺ): “O my servants, those of you who have transgressed against yourselves (by committing sin); do not lose hope in the mercy of Allah (Almighty); indeed, Allah (Almighty) shall forgive the entirety of your sins; indeed, He is the Most Forgiving and the Most Merciful”.‘ 

This beautiful verse offers immense hope, teaching us that turning back to the right course is always possible and is beloved by our Creator. 

The Virtue of Repentance 

The prophetic teachings highlight that making mistakes is an inherent part of the human condition. What distinguishes a person is not the absence of error, but the willingness to repent and improve. 

It is recorded in Mishkaat Al Masaabih, Hadith 2341, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘All the children of Adam are sinners, and the best of the sinners are those who repent.’ 

This hadith affirms that the best response to a mistake is sincere repentance and self-correction. By modelling this process for our children, we teach them an invaluable life lesson and simultaneously draw ourselves closer to Allah Almighty, who loves those who learn from their errors.