How do I make role models from the stories of the Prophets relatable? 

Parenting Perspective 

The stories of the Prophets are one of the most powerful tools for shaping a child’s character. Yet, because these figures lived long ago in different circumstances, children can sometimes struggle to see how their lives connect to their own. Your role as a parent is to bridge this gap, making the timeless lessons of the Prophets simple, practical, and relevant to your child’s world. 

Simplify the Core Message 

Rather than focusing on complex historical details, distil each story down to its central moral theme. Use expressive storytelling and clear, child-friendly language to highlight the core virtues on display. 

• The story of Nuh عليه السلام teaches us about patience, even when others mock us. 

• The story of Musa عليه السلام shows us the importance of being brave when facing injustice. 

• The story of Yusuf عليه السلام is a profound lesson in forgiving those who have wronged us. 

Connect Their Struggles to Everyday Life 

After sharing a story, help your child make a direct connection between the Prophet’s experience and their own relatable challenges. 

• You could say, ‘Just as Prophet Yusuf عليه السلام forgave his brothers, you can find it in your heart to forgive a friend who upsets you.’ 

• Or ask, ‘Prophet Musa عليه السلام was very brave. What is a situation at school where you could show a little bravery?’ 

This helps children see the Prophets as practical role models for the choices they face every day. 

Use Activities to Make Lessons Practical 

Children internalise lessons most effectively when they can engage with them physically. The practical application of these stories makes them memorable. 

• You could act out a scenario of forgiving a sibling, just as Prophet Yusuf عليه السلام did. 

• While building something together, you can talk about the patience of Prophet Nuh عليه السلام as he constructed the Ark. 

• Practise taking a deep breath and responding calmly when upset, following the example of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. 

Reinforce Lessons Through Repetition 

Return to these powerful stories often, reinforcing their core lessons with short, memorable phrases that your child can easily recall. 

• ‘Remember to have the patience of Nuh.’ 

• ‘Try to show the forgiveness of Yusuf.’ 

• ‘Be brave in the way of Musa.’ 

Consistent repetition helps these noble values become a firm part of your child’s character. 

Spiritual Insight 

Guidance from the Quran 

Allah Almighty tells us that the stories of the Prophets are not just for historical reflection but are filled with lessons for our daily lives. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Yusuf (12), Verse 111: 

‘Without any doubt, there is in their narratives (of the perished nations) a lesson for the people endowed with understanding; this (Quran) is not a narration which is invented (by any man), however it is confirmation of (the previous Revelations) which have been sent before the (Quran); and an explanation of everything (that is in existence) and comprehensive guidance and infinite mercy for those nations that are believers.’ 

This verse beautifully clarifies that the stories of the Prophets are not mere historical accounts; they are a source of living guidance and mercy for humanity. By teaching them in a relatable manner, you help ensure your child can benefit from that divine wisdom in their own life. 

Guidance from the Hadith 

The Prophets, despite their different times and places, were united in their mission and their essential message of goodness. 

It is recorded in Mishkaat Al Masaabih, Hadith 5722, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The Prophets are brothers from different mothers, and their religion is one.’ 

This Hadith reminds us that all the Prophets called humanity toward the same universal virtues: truth, patience, honesty, and compassion. By showing your child how these qualities apply directly to their own life, you help them see the Prophets as real, accessible role models rather than distant historical figures.