Parenting Perspective 

When something valuable to your child is broken, it is essential to handle the situation with care and sincerity. The goal is not to make it a dramatic event, but to show genuine responsibility for the mistake and to make practical efforts to mend what was broken. Whether the item is a favourite toy, a gift, or even a promise, the key is to acknowledge the mistake and show your child that you are committed to making things right in a humble and purposeful way. 

Acknowledge the Mistake Without Overreacting 

The first step is to acknowledge the mistake simply and sincerely. This is not about exaggerating the importance of the mistake, but rather showing that you understand the impact it has on your child. 

• What to do: Keep your tone calm and gentle. You can say something like, ‘I see that I broke your toy, and I am really sorry for that. I understand that it was important to you.’ 

• Why it works: By acknowledging the harm without creating unnecessary drama, you help your child see that you take responsibility seriously. 

Discuss What Can Be Done to Fix It 

Once the mistake is acknowledged, shift the focus to practical solutions. Involve your child in the process of repairing or replacing what was broken, where possible. 

• What to do: If it is a toy or item, explain how you can work together to fix it or replace it. Saying something like, ‘Let us see how we can fix it together,’ or ‘I will help you find a replacement,’ teaches your child that mistakes can be fixed with effort. 

• Why it works: This approach avoids the need for excessive attention or grand gestures. 

Demonstrate Responsibility Through Action 

After you have discussed how to fix it, follow through on your promise. Consistency is key; do not just talk about fixing the problem, but take action to make it right. 

• Why it works: When your child sees that you take responsibility seriously, they learn to do the same in their own lives. 

Reinforce Emotional Support Without Overindulgence 

While it is important to fix what was broken, it is equally essential to reassure your child emotionally without overindulging them. 

• What to do: If the item was particularly sentimental, it may be helpful to talk about why it was meaningful. At the same time, avoid making the situation more emotionally charged than necessary. 

• Why it works: Focusing on offering comfort and reassurance shows that mistakes happen, and what matters is how we handle them. 

Teach the Value of Repair and Growth 

Use the experience as an opportunity to teach your child the importance of handling mistakes maturely. 

• What to say: You can say, ‘Sometimes things break, but that does not mean everything is lost. We can always try to fix it or learn from it and do better next time.’ 

• Why it works: This teaches resilience and reinforces that mistakes are an opportunity for growth, not just a reason for guilt. 

By approaching the situation calmly, you teach your child that broken things can be fixed with thoughtful effort. 

Spiritual Insight 

The Capacity for Growth and Healing 

The noble Quran reminds us that, no matter how big or small the mistake, we are equipped to handle it, and Allah will not burden us beyond our capacity. It assures us that every challenge we face is within our ability to repair. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 286: 

‘ Allah (Almighty) does not place any burden on any human being except that which is within his capacity…’ 

For children, this is a comforting reminder that while mistakes may occur, there is always the ability to fix them and move forward. 

The Importance of Repentance 

The teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ tell us the importance of repentance and taking action to correct our wrongs. For parents, this reinforces the idea that repairing what has been broken is not only a responsibility but a part of our faith. 

It is recorded in Musnad Ahmad, Hadith 95, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Whoever makes a mistake and then repents, Allah will forgive him.’ 

The act of repentance and making things right is an essential part of spiritual growth, helping both adults and children understand that we can always return to Allah and correct our mistakes. By using this spiritual guidance, you help your child see that what matters is how we handle our mistakes, making sincere efforts to fix what was broken.