Parenting Perspective 

When classmates share stories and pictures of their luxury holidays, a child who cannot afford similar experiences may feel left out. They can easily begin to compare their own family’s situation with that of others, which can lead to feelings of envy and a sense of being deprived. This weakens their ability to appreciate the blessings they already have, as their focus shifts to what they believe is missing from their life.

Creating Feelings of Exclusion and Envy 

A child’s natural contentment can be quickly eroded by social comparison. Seeing friends enjoy expensive trips can make them feel that their own life is less exciting or valuable, which can be a painful burden for a young heart to carry. 

The Damage to a Child’s Self-Worth 

Children often link their identity to their social standing. Seeing their peers enjoy luxurious holidays may make them believe their family is less successful, or that they themselves are less worthy. This can create a sense of embarrassment, making them feel they have nothing equally impressive to share. 

The Weakening of Gratitude 

The constant comparison with classmates’ holidays can overshadow a child’s appreciation for everyday joys, such as a simple family outing or a peaceful day at home. Over time, this fosters the belief that happiness is only valid if it is extravagant. 

The Long-Term Effects on Behaviour 

This mindset can have lasting consequences. 

• Material Pressure: Children may begin to pressure their parents for similar trips, causing financial and emotional strain at home. 

• Restlessness: They can struggle to enjoy ordinary experiences, always seeking something more glamorous. 

• Misplaced Aspirations: They may grow up chasing a life of appearances rather than one of meaningful fulfilment. 

Helping Children to Preserve Contentment 

Parents can support their children with gentle and consistent guidance. 

• Acknowledge their feelings of envy or sadness without dismissing them as wrong. 

• Teach them to enjoy simple family moments, recognising that love, laughter, and health are greater blessings than wealth. 

• Redirect their focus towards experiences that build connection and learning, even if they are inexpensive. 

• Emphasise that every family has its own path, and that true success is not measured by holidays. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that true contentment (qanā‘ah) is a treasure of the heart, a gift from Allah that is far more valuable than any worldly pleasure. The culture of comparing holidays and lifestyles is a direct challenge to this principle, as it encourages dissatisfaction and envy. 

A Quranic Reminder on Gratitude 

The Quran reminds us that focusing on gratitude for what we have is the key to receiving more blessings from Allah, whereas envy only deprives the heart of peace. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Ibraheem (14), Verse 7: 

‘ And (remember) when your Sustainer made this declaration; (saying that): “If you show gratitude, I (Allah Almighty) will indeed, amplify them for you (provisions and sustenance); however, if you become ungrateful, then indeed, My punishment is Meticulous (in execution)”.‘ 

This verse teaches that gratitude brings a true increase in blessings. 

The Prophetic Teaching on Contentment 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught that true wealth is not found in luxury trips or possessions, but in a heart that is content with what Allah has provided. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2965, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Successful is he who accepts Islam, is given provision that suffices him, and Allah makes him content with what He has given him.’ 

This hadith highlights that sufficiency and contentment are greater forms of wealth than any luxury. 

By grounding children in the understanding that blessings are not measured by extravagance, parents can strengthen their gratitude and inner peace. They can learn that true contentment comes from faith, family love, and recognising Allah’s countless daily gifts, not from trying to match the lifestyles of their classmates.