How do I teach my son that helping at home is Sunnah, not ‘girls’ work’? 

Parenting Perspective 

The Prophetic Example of Cooperation 

Teaching your son that helping at home is part of the Sunnah and not just ‘girls’ work’ begins by normalising shared household responsibilities. You can start by explaining to him that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was a role model for equality and cooperation within the family. You might say, ‘The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ helped his family with chores, like mending his own clothes and helping in the house. He showed us that taking care of the home is a good thing for both men and women.’ 

Kindness and Care, Regardless of Gender 

It is important to emphasise that in Islam, helping at home is about showing kindness, cooperation, and care for the family, regardless of gender. For example, ‘Helping your mother with cleaning or organising is just as important as playing sports or doing other activities. It is part of being a responsible and caring person.’ Encourage him to see household tasks as an opportunity to help his family and to earn a reward from Allah, making it clear that such actions are noble and commendable in Islam. 

Use Stories and Praise 

Use examples from the lives of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his companions, where men and women equally contributed to household duties. You could say, ‘The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ once said that the best of you are those who are the best to their families. That includes helping with household tasks and being supportive.’ Praise your son when he helps out around the house, as this reinforces that he is following the Sunnah and acting in a way that honours the values of respect and equality. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, both men and women are encouraged to contribute to household responsibilities, and helping at home is seen as a noble act. Allah Almighty reminds us in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 195: 

‘And expend (your wealth) in the pathway of Allah (Almighty), and do not let your actions place you in a (state of) destruction (by being miserly)…..’ 

This verse teaches us the importance of supporting one another and of working together for the benefit of the family and society. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ exemplified this behaviour throughout his life. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3587, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

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

This Hadith reinforces that by teaching your son that helping at home is not limited by gender but is part of being a good and responsible person, you are instilling in him the Islamic values of cooperation, humility, and respect.