My child draws pictures where the parents are far apart. Could their play be showing us what they cannot say? 

Parenting Perspective 

Yes, absolutely. Children frequently express through play, art, or small comments what they cannot yet articulate with words. If your child’s drawings consistently depict their parents as being far apart, it is very likely their way of processing an emotional distance they are sensing but do not fully understand. Children are incredibly perceptive; even if a home is quiet and seems to be functioning well, they can detect an absence of warmth, minimal interaction, or unspoken tension. Their drawings should not be seen as accusations, but as emotional mirrors reflecting the family climate. Through their creativity, they are often asking, “Is this normal? Is something wrong here?” 

What to Observe in Their Expression 

• Themes of distance or isolation, such as figures drawn far apart, in separate rooms, or with no physical contact. 

• Expressions of emotion in the art, including sad faces, the use of dull colours, or stormy backgrounds. 

• Changes over time, observing whether their pictures become brighter after moments of connection or remain muted. 

Instead of interrogating them about their drawing, allow it to serve as a gentle opening for conversation. You could simply say, “This is such an interesting picture. Can you tell me what is happening here?” Let them guide the narrative. Afterwards, you can subtly offer reassurance by saying, “You know, sometimes parents can feel a bit distant from each other, but love always helps us find a way to come close again.” Use this moment not as a cause for panic, but as an opportunity to reconnect through your presence, warmth, and the steady rebuilding of your bond. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, children are an Amanah (a sacred trust), and an essential part of upholding that trust is being emotionally attuned to them. When a child quietly signals their distress, even through something as simple as a drawing, it becomes a test of our awareness and compassion. The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was a master of noticing the unspoken; he would see the tear in a child’s eye or hear the hesitation in a companion’s voice and respond with immediate tenderness. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Israa (17), Verses 36: 

‘And do not pursue (to meddle in matters) with which you have no knowledge; indeed, your hearing (everything you heard), your sight (everything you observed), your conscience (everything you thought), in fact, all of these (your faculties) shall be called for questioning (on the Day of Judgement). ‘

This verse is a powerful reminder that what our children see, hear, and feel is not invisible in the sight of Allah Almighty. We are held accountable not only for our actions, but also for the truths we choose to ignore. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 1924, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Be merciful to those on the earth, and the One above the heavens will have mercy on you. ‘

When we respond to our child’s subtle emotional signals with gentle awareness instead of denial, we are doing more than just parenting; we are fulfilling a spiritual trust. A picture drawn in silence can become a doorway to healing, but only if we are willing to look at it with the eyes of the heart.