Parenting Perspective 

It is Never Too Late 

Many parents worry that if they did not start teaching their heritage language when their child was very young, it is now too late. Alhamdulillah, it is never too late. Children’s brains are naturally built to learn, and older children can still pick up a language with steady exposure, encouragement, and patience. The key is to make the experience positive, not pressured. 

Start small by using familiar words during daily routines, such as greetings, names of food, family stories, or bedtime prayers. You can watch movies, listen to Nasheeds, or read simple books together in your heritage language. Make it feel fun and relevant by connecting it to things your child already enjoys. Encourage your child to use new words in short phrases rather than expecting full conversations straight away. It is important to praise their effort warmly and never mock their mistakes. If your child resists, gently remind them how this language connects them to their grandparents, family history, and Islamic knowledge. Stay consistent but flexible; even a few minutes each day will plant the seeds. 

Spiritual Insight 

Protecting Our God-Given Dignity 

Islam honours every effort we make to protect what is valuable, including our language. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Israa (17), Verse 70: 

‘Indeed, We (Allah Almighty) have honoured the descendants of Adam….and We gave them preferential treatment over many of those (species) We have created with special privileges.’ 

This verse reminds us that our identity, culture, and words are all part of the dignity that Allah Almighty has granted us. Teaching your child their heritage language is a way of protecting that honour and strengthening family ties. 

A Beloved Act in Islam 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5027, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘The best among you are those who learn the Quran and teach it.’ 

This Hadith Shareef reminds us that learning and teaching, at any age, are beloved acts in Islam. Make Dua that Allah Almighty blesses your child’s tongue, memory, and heart with ease. Show your child that every word they learn in their heritage language is an act of gratitude, preserving a trust for the next generation. Be patient with setbacks and celebrate every small gain. By doing so, you give your child a living link to their family, faith, and the wider Ummah, a connection that will, InshaAllah, carry them with honour wherever they go.