Parenting Perspective 

When one parent leaves for work before the children wake up, mornings can feel unbalanced. The child may miss the absent parent and the present parent may feel stretched trying to hold everything together. The solution is to create a sense of connection with the absent parent while ensuring the routine remains calm and steady. 

Prepare the Evening Before 

Set out uniforms, bags, and kits the night before so the solo parent is not left managing both emotions and logistics in the morning. A five-minute evening check-in as a couple can ensure nothing is forgotten. 

Leave a Trace of Connection 

The parent leaving early can write a short note, record a voice message, or leave a small item (like a favourite snack or a sticky note with “I love you, see you later”). This gives the child something tangible to bridge the absence. 

Keep the Morning Simple 

The parent at home should keep routines minimal and predictable: breakfast, getting dressed, and a calm goodbye ritual. Avoid adding new rules or tasks when managing alone. 

Reconnect Later 

The working parent should reconnect intentionally at the end of the day, even with a short call or a few minutes of full attention. This prevents the absence from feeling like neglect and reassures the child that both parents are present in different ways. 

Handled consistently, children adjust well and even learn resilience, seeing that family love remains steady despite different schedules. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam acknowledges the responsibilities of work while also stressing the importance of maintaining ties of love and mercy within the family. Even when physical presence is not possible, intentional connection nurtures trust and affection. 

Guidance from the Noble Quran 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Taghaabun (64), Verses 15: 

‘Indeed, your wealth and your children are a trial and tribulation for you; and with Allah (Almighty) lays the greatest reward.’ 

This reminds us that balancing family and work is part of the test of life, and success lies in keeping both responsibilities in harmony. 

Teaching from the Hadith 

It is recorded in Riyadh Al Saliheen, Hadith 278, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

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

This teaches us that no matter how early one leaves for work, true excellence lies in maintaining goodness and care toward one’s family. 

By preparing the night before, leaving small tokens of presence, and reconnecting later, you show your children that love is not measured only by time but by consistency and intention. They grow up secure, knowing that even when one parent leaves early, the family’s bond remains strong and centred in mercy.