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Is there a Sunnah way of storytelling for children?

Parenting Perspective

Yes. holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ demonstrated a beautifully intuitive approach to storytelling that offers a timeless model for nurturing young minds. His stories were emotionally engaging, rich in meaning, and tailored to the understanding of his listeners. He often used real events or parables that resonated with the moral and emotional development of children. He repeated key messages gently, used vivid yet simple language, and delivered his stories with affection and sincerity. This made his words easy to remember and deeply impactful.
Parents today can follow this Prophetic example by using stories to teach values such as honesty, courage, patience, and kindness. Relating these stories to everyday experiences makes them more meaningful. For instance, you might tell your child about the boy who refused to lie because he feared Allah Almighty was always watching or recount a moment from the life of Prophet Yusuf (AS) to inspire hope and trust in Allah Almighty. Ask open-ended questions like ‘What would you have done?’ or ‘How do you think he felt?’ to encourage reflection. By making storytelling a regular part of the day, whether at bedtime or during quiet moments, you help children form emotional connections to values. A well, told story is remembered far longer than a simple instruction, and it provides a gentle, lasting guide for life.

Spiritual Insight

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Yusuf 12, Verse 3: ‘Indeed, We (Allah Almighty) have narrated to you (O Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) the most profound narrative.’ This Verse highlights that storytelling is a divinely endorsed way of teaching, especially when it comes to nurturing understanding and faith. The story of Prophet Yusuf (AS) itself is filled with emotional trials, moral lessons, and spiritual truths that offer comfort and guidance across all ages.
It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6130, that Holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ welcomed children into his gatherings and engaged them with kindness and wisdom. He made space for their presence and curiosity, and through storytelling, he sowed seeds of character and connection. This Prophetic way shows that storytelling is not simply entertainment but a means of shaping hearts and guiding behaviour. When used with care and intention, storytelling becomes a powerful tool of Tarbiyah, cultivating love for truth and nurturing a child’s spiritual identity.

 

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