Parenting Perspective 

True gratitude is more than just saying ‘thank you’; it is an attitude that is reflected in a child’s behaviour after they have received kindness. While words express appreciation, it is our actions that truly prove it. Teaching gratitude in both speech and behaviour helps children to understand that thankfulness is a way of living, not just a polite phrase to be recited. 

Link Words to Actions 

Explain to your child that while saying thank you is good, showing it is even better. You can provide simple, concrete examples: if their grandmother gives them a gift, they can show their gratitude by using it and expressing their enjoyment. If someone helps them with their homework, they can show thanks by offering to help that person in return at a later time. 

Practise Daily Acts of Thanks 

Encourage your child to perform small, daily gestures of gratitude. This could be tidying up after a meal to thank the person who cooked, offering a glass of water to an elder who is sitting down, or helping a sibling who has just shared their toy. These simple actions teach them that gratitude is actively expressed through service and kindness. 

Reinforce by Modelling 

Show your own gratitude not only through words but also through your actions. If someone visits your home, serve them generously. If a neighbour helps you with something, return the favour with a small gesture of thanks. Your child will learn from your example that gratitude is a quality that is lived, not just spoken. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that gratitude must be a lived reality, demonstrated through both our speech and our deeds. It is not limited to verbal praise but is also shown in how we use the blessings we have been given and in how we treat others. 

Gratitude Through Action 

The Quran gives a direct command to the family of Prophet Dawud (peace be upon him) to express their gratitude not just with words, but through their work and actions. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Saba (34), Verses 13: 

‘…(Allah Almighty said): “Work (industriously) O family of (Prophet) Dawood (AS) with gratitude…”.’ 

Worship as an Expression of Gratitude 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself demonstrated that the highest form of gratitude is expressed through sincere actions and devotion, going beyond what is merely required. 

It is recorded in Riyadh Al Saliheen, Hadith 98, that Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) said: 

‘The Prophet ﷺ used to pray at night until his feet swelled. I asked him, “Why do you do this when Allah has forgiven your past and future sins?” He replied, “Shall I not then be a grateful servant?”’ 

By guiding your child to show thanks through both words and deeds, you are rooting their manners in sincerity. They will learn that gratitude is not only spoken politely but lived meaningfully, bringing them closer to people and to Allah Almighty.