How to Use Play to Nurture Your Child’s Confidence 

Parenting Perspective 

When a child is low in confidence or hesitant to express creativity, play can become a powerful bridge to safety and belonging. Rather than focusing on results or achievements, let playtime be a space where your child feels accepted exactly as they are. This means prioritising the process over the product. For instance, if your child is drawing, instead of commenting on whether it looks ‘good,’ you might say, ‘I love how you used that colour,’ or, ‘Tell me about your picture.’ This shifts the focus from performance to expression, helping your child feel truly seen. 

Their Ideas Have Value 

Joining your child’s world of play also communicates to them that their ideas have value. If they invent a game or create a story, let them lead while you follow with genuine interest. Allowing them to take control of the play builds confidence because they experience themselves as capable and respected. Small affirmations such as, ‘That is a great idea,’ or, ‘I had fun playing your game,’ strengthen their sense of agency. 

Most importantly, consistency matters. Regular, short moments of playful connection carry more weight than rare, elaborate efforts. A child who experiences repeated moments of being listened to, joined in, and celebrated for their ideas will gradually feel safer to try new things and show more of their creativity. Play does not need to be complicated; it needs to be a safe stage where your child feels appreciated and emotionally nourished. 

Spiritual Insight 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), verse 13: 

‘O mankind, indeed, We (Allah Almighty) have created you all from one man and one woman; and placed you amongst various nations and tribes for your introduction to each other; indeed, the best of you in the judgement of Allah (Almighty) is the one who is most virtuous….’ 

This verse highlights that every individual has worth, not because of outward measures, but because of their piety and unique place in creation. For a child, feeling recognised and valued for who they are, rather than what they produce, mirrors this divine perspective. Play is one way to affirm that they are worthy of love and belonging without conditions. 

The Prophetic Model: Mercy is the Foundation 

It is recorded in Jami al-Tirmidhi that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Whoever does not show mercy to our young ones and respect to our elders is not one of us.’ 

[Jami al-Tirmidhi,27:27] 

This Hadith reminds us that mercy is the foundation of nurturing children. To show mercy in play means creating space for joy, allowing mistakes without judgment, and fostering creativity without pressure. Through such gentle engagement, a parent models emotional safety while instilling confidence rooted in love and respect. 

By combining consistent playful presence with an attitude of mercy, you help your child experience connection as both emotionally safe and spiritually meaningful. Over time, this becomes the soil in which their confidence and creativity can grow naturally.