Parenting Perspective 

It can be hurtful when a child responds coldly to a parent’s apology, either by ignoring it or dismissing it quickly. However, it is important to remember that children, like adults, need time to process their emotions. Respecting their feelings while continuing to show sincerity is a more effective way to rebuild trust than trying to force their forgiveness. 

Accept Their Feelings Without Pressure 

If your child brushes off your apology, the best response is a calm and patient one. You could say, “That is alright. I understand you are still feeling upset, and I will give you some time.” This response shows that you respect their emotions and that your apology was not offered simply to make yourself feel better. 

Show Sincerity Through Actions 

Even if they have not yet responded to your words, you can continue to demonstrate your sincerity through your actions. Make small, gentle gestures of care, such as helping them with a task, sitting quietly nearby, or offering them a drink. These non-verbal cues communicate that your regret is genuine and that you wish to reconnect. 

Keep the Door Open for Reconnection 

Later, when the emotional atmosphere is calmer, you can gently revisit the topic. You might say, “I just wanted you to know that I really meant it when I said I was sorry earlier. I care about you, and I will try harder not to repeat my mistake.” This reassures them that your apology was real, even if they were not ready to accept it in that moment. 

Model Emotional Patience and Grace 

By handling their initial reaction with grace, you show them that an apology is not about demanding instant forgiveness, but about taking responsibility and allowing space for healing. Over time, your consistency and patience will help them learn to accept apologies with greater maturity. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, forgiveness is a noble act, but it is also a process that cannot be forced. The act of apologising is about fulfilling your own duty to acknowledge harm and seek reconciliation, while understanding that the softening of hearts is ultimately in the hands of Allah Almighty. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Shuraa (42), Verses 43: 

‘And for the person who is patient and forgiving, indeed, (these acts are derived from) higher moral determination.’ 

This verse reminds us that both patience on the part of the apologiser and forgiveness on the part of the wronged are acts that require time and true strength of character. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also taught the value of persisting in kindness, even when it is not immediately reciprocated. 

It is recorded in Al Adab Al Mufrad, Hadith 68, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The one who maintains ties is not the one who merely reciprocates. The one who truly maintains ties is the one who keeps good relations even when the other cuts him off.’ 

This teaches us that our duty to maintain bonds of love and kinship means continuing to show kindness, even if the other person is not yet ready to respond in a similar way. By respecting your child’s need for space when they brush off your apology, you are embodying the profound Islamic value of patience. Your child learns from your example that reconciliation is a process, one that requires sincerity, time, and mercy. In the long run, this patient approach will strengthen both your child’s trust in you and their own emotional maturity.