Parenting Perspective 

It can be overwhelming when several children demand your attention at once, with each request feeling urgent. This sensory overload can easily trigger irritation. Reacting with anger may silence them temporarily, but it often leaves them feeling unheard. Staying composed in these moments requires a balance of fairness, structure, and calm, so each child feels valued even when they have to wait their turn. 

Acknowledge Calmly, Then Prioritise 

First, let all the children know that you have heard them by saying something like, ‘I hear you all, and I will help each of you one by one.’ Then, calmly assess the situation and address the most urgent need first, such as a matter of safety, an injury, or a conflict that needs resolving. This method demonstrates order and fairness, bringing calm to a potentially chaotic situation. 

Use Signals and Routines 

Establish simple family signals for getting your attention, such as raising a hand or waiting for a gentle tap on the arm instead of shouting. You can also create routines and verbal cues that teach patience, for example, ‘I am helping your sister with her shoes right now. When I am finished, it will be your turn.’ Predictable structures like this help to reduce chaos and teach children how to wait. 

Regulate Yourself in the Moment 

When you feel overwhelmed, take a single, slow breath before you respond to the chorus of demands. Remind yourself that feeling pulled in many different directions is a normal part of parenting and the moment will soon pass. A calm and measured tone will reassure your children far more effectively than fast, stressed words. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam places great emphasis on patience and fairness when one is faced with multiple competing responsibilities. It reminds us that responding to these pressures with justice and calmness is in itself an act of worship. 

The Superiority of Patience 

The Quran teaches that while responding to a wrong with an equivalent is just, the path of patience is always the better and stronger choice, especially in moments of tension. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Nahal (16), Verses 126: 

‘ And if you have to retaliate (with your enemies) then reciprocating the same manner in which you were attacked with; and if you show patience (and resilience), then surely this is the best (pathway) for those who are extremely patient.‘ 

The Beautifying Quality of Gentleness 

The prophetic tradition reminds us that gentleness is a quality that adds beauty and goodness to every situation, while its absence leads to deficiency and harshness. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2594, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Gentleness is not in anything except that it beautifies it, and it is not removed from anything except that it makes it defective.’ 

By modelling patience and gentleness, you teach your children vital lessons in respect, fairness, and calm problem-solving. They will learn that a harmonious family life thrives not on shouting to be heard, but on shared kindness and consideration.