What do I do when a child begs for snacks as soon as we join a queue? 

Parenting Perspective 

Children often ask for snacks the moment waiting begins, not because they are truly hungry but because boredom and impatience trigger the thought. If you give in every time, the habit strengthens. A calm, consistent approach helps children learn to manage waiting without always relying on food. 

Set the Rule Before Leaving 

Prepare your child with a clear routine. This prevents surprises and sets boundaries in advance. 

• ‘Snacks are for after shopping, not in the queue.’ 

• ‘We will eat when we are home, inshaAllah.’ 

Acknowledge the Request Without Giving In 

Instead of ignoring or snapping, use empathetic but firm words. This shows respect for their feelings while holding the limit. 

• ‘I hear you want a snack. It is hard to wait, but snacks are not for the queue.’ 

• ‘You can have one when we get to the car.’ 

Offer a Non-Food Distraction 

Redirect their attention with something engaging. This makes the wait less about food. 

• ‘Let us count how many items are in the basket ahead of us.’ 

• ‘Can you spot the letter “A” on a sign while we wait?’ 

Praise Waiting Calmly 

When they manage to hold on, highlight it. This reinforces their patient behaviour. 

• ‘You waited without fuss. That showed real patience.’ 

A mini-dialogue example: 

Child: ‘Please can I have a snack now?’ 

Parent: ‘I know you want one. Snacks are for later. While we wait, can you help me spot the numbers on the till screen?’ 

Spiritual Insight 

Patience with food is a meaningful lesson in Islam. Learning to wait for the right time teaches self-control and gratitude for Allah Almighty’s provision. 

Patience With Hunger 

This reminds us that even small acts of waiting, like holding back from snacks, are part of sabr that brings Allah Almighty’s closeness. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 153: 

‘ O those of you who are believers, seek assistance (from Allah Almighty) through resilience and prayer, indeed, Allah (Almighty) is with those that are resilient.’ 

The Prophet ﷺ on Moderation 

This teaches us that food should not be used to fill boredom or impatience, but taken with moderation and timing. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, 3349, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘A human being fills no worse vessel than his stomach. It is sufficient for a human being to eat a few mouthfuls to keep his back straight. But if he must, then one third for food, one third for drink, and one third for air.‘ 

By guiding your child calmly in the queue, you help them learn that patience is not deprivation but discipline. Over time, they discover that waiting strengthens both character and gratitude lessons that nurture well-being and faith.