Parenting Perspective 

Explain the Connection 

Linking good manners to your faith values is an important way to help your child understand the significance of their character and behaviour. You can start by explaining that Islam teaches us to treat others with kindness, respect, and dignity. For example, you might say, ‘Good manners are a way of showing respect to others and being kind, just as Allah has instructed us to be compassionate and fair.’ 

Help your child to understand that good manners, such as greeting others kindly, saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you,’ and being considerate, are not just social norms but are ways of showing respect for the people whom Allah has created. Teach them that how we interact with others reflects our inner character and the values we hold. You can reinforce this by saying, ‘When you use kind words and treat others with respect, you are following the example of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, who was known for his excellent manners.’ 

Practice and Praise 

Role-playing can be a useful way to teach good manners while connecting them to your faith values. For example, you might practise saying ‘As-Salaam Alaikum’ (peace be upon you) with your child or demonstrating how to act with politeness and humility. It is important to praise your child when they display good manners, and to explain how their actions reflect the good character that Islam teaches. By linking good manners directly to faith, you are helping your child to understand that their actions have spiritual significance. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, good manners are a reflection of one’s faith, and Allah Almighty encourages us to show kindness and respect to others. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Ahzaab (33), Verse 70: 

‘O those of you, who are believers, seek piety from Allah (Almighty) and always speak with words of blatant accuracy.’ 

This verse teaches us that our words and actions should reflect our faith, promoting justice, respect, and kindness in all our interactions. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ placed great emphasis on the importance of good manners. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3587, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘The best of you are those who are the best to their families.’ 

This Hadith serves as a reminder that the way we treat others, particularly those closest to us, is a reflection of our character and our faith. By teaching your child to link good manners to their faith values, you are helping them to build a strong character and to nurture relationships that are rooted in kindness, respect, and love for Allah.