Parenting Perspective 

Children often internalise the belief that love is conditional. If they make a mistake, break a rule, or disappoint someone, they may begin to fear that affection, both from their parents and from the Divine, will be withdrawn. If this mindset is left unchecked, it can create feelings of shame and emotional distance. Parents have a beautiful opportunity to model a different truth: that mistakes are a normal part of being human, love remains steady, and the mercy of Allah Almighty is far wider than any human weakness. By teaching this early, children can grow to be resilient, humble, and hopeful, knowing they can always return after stumbling. 

Separate the Child from the Mistake 

Make it clear to your child that their wrong actions do not define their worth. You can say, “I do not like what you did, but I will always love you. And it is important for you to know that Allah Almighty still loves you, even when you stumble.” This approach protects their dignity while still allowing you to guide their behaviour. 

Emphasise Allah’s Mercy Over Perfection 

Children may begin to think that love is reserved only for those who “never slip up.” Gently remind them, “Allah Almighty knows that we all make mistakes. What He loves most is not that we are perfect, but that we keep trying again and seeking His forgiveness.” This shifts their focus from achieving flawless behaviour to engaging in hopeful repentance. 

Use Stories of the Prophets for Reassurance 

Stories are a powerful way to shape how children view failure. You can share how Prophet Adam (AS) made a mistake but immediately turned back to Allah with a heartfelt dua, and Allah forgave him. Explain that his stumble became a doorway to experiencing Allah’s mercy. You can also share the story of Prophet Yunus (AS), who cried out from the belly of the whale and was rescued because he remembered Allah. These stories show that mistakes are never the end of a person’s relationship with Allah. 

Model Hope and Repentance in Your Own Life 

When you err, express your own process of repentance openly. For example, “Astaghfirullah, I made a mistake just now, but Alhamdulillah, I know that Allah forgives me when I ask.” This helps to normalise repentance as a natural part of daily life, not as a sign of some great failure. Your children will imitate your hopeful response far more than they will remember your words. 

Create Gentle Rituals of Return 

After your child has made a mistake, you can invite them to recite a short dua with you, such as, “Ya Allah, please forgive me and help me to do better.” You can pair this with a reassuring hug or a warm smile. This transforms the act of repentance into a moment of closeness and connection, not one of fear. Over time, these small rituals will remind them that stumbling is only a pause on the path, never a disqualification from the love of Allah. 

By building these gentle habits, your children can learn that they are always safe in love, both yours and Allah Almighty’s, even when they fall short of expectations. 

Spiritual Insight 

The Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ make it clear that Allah Almighty loves those who repent with sincerity. Repentance is not just about saying sorry; it is the act of returning to Allah with humility, regret, and a sincere desire to do better. 

The Quran on Allah’s Love for Repentance 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verses 222: 

‘“…Indeed, Allah (Almighty) loves those who repent excessively and those who adore their personal purification”.’ 

This verse shows that the love of Allah is directed especially towards those who turn back to Him after making a mistake. The act of falling is not the problem; refusing to rise again is. Teaching this assures children that stumbling only deepens their opportunity for divine closeness. 

The Hadith on Allah’s Joy in Forgiveness 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2747, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Verily, Allah is more delighted with the repentance of His servant than a person who loses his camel in a barren desert and then finds it.’ 

This Hadith paints a vivid picture of relief and joy. Just as a traveller rejoices at finding their lifeline in a seemingly hopeless desert, Allah rejoices even more when His servant turns back to Him. Sharing this with your children nurtures a sense of hope: mistakes are not the end of the story but are instead an opening for the infinite mercy of Allah. 

By rooting your parenting in these beautiful reminders, you can show your children that their stumbles are not evidence of lost love but are in fact moments to rediscover it, strengthening both their faith and their bond with you.