What do I do when they open a parcel that was not theirs out of curiosity? 

Parenting Perspective 

When a child opens someone else’s parcel, it is usually an act of curiosity mixed with impulse, not malice. Nevertheless, it is a breach of privacy and trust. Your role is to turn this awkward mistake into a masterclass in self-control, repair, and respect for boundaries. 

Name the Line That Was Crossed, Calmly 

It is important to keep your tone steady. You can say, ‘Opening post that is not ours is a breach of privacy. Even when our curiosity is strong, we must respect other people’s things.’ Avoid using shaming labels. Children are more likely to listen when correction is delivered with dignity rather than drama. 

Teach a Simple Rule for All Mail and Packages 

Give them a universal script that they can apply in every situation: ‘If my name is not on it, I do not open it. I take it to the owner or a parent.’ You can post this rule near the area in your home where parcels are usually left. Predictable rules help to reduce the power of impulse. 

Guide an Honest Repair If They Have Already Opened It 

Help them to make amends with a simple, three-step process. 

1. Acknowledge: ‘I opened your parcel without permission. I am very sorry.’ 

2. Repair: Repackage the item neatly, reseal it in a clear bag, or replace any damaged wrapping. If the item itself has been damaged, an offer to replace it should be made. 

3. Assure: ‘In the future, I will place any parcels that are not in my name on the tray and let you know straight away.’ 

Keep the apology brief and focused on taking responsibility. Avoid excuses like, ‘I was just checking what it was.’ 

Create Practical Safeguards at Home 

• A Parcel Tray: Designate a visible spot where all deliveries are placed unopened. 

• The Name-Check Habit: Encourage everyone in the family to say the name on the parcel out loud before touching it. 

• The Two-Step Pause: If they feel tempted to open something, teach them to step back two paces and count to five. This micro-pause can be enough to interrupt the impulse. 

By handling the situation with clarity, rehearsal, and kind accountability, you can teach your child that real maturity is about choosing respect over curiosity. 

Spiritual Insight 

Opening what belongs to someone else without their permission is not just a social mistake; it conflicts with the Islamic ethic of amanah—honouring trusts and guarding the privacy of others. Teaching your child to show restraint in these moments helps to nurture their taqwa in unseen moments. 

Guarding Trusts, Even When Unobserved 

The Quran reminds us that a believer’s character is measured by how carefully they keep their trusts. A sealed parcel, an addressed envelope, or a private message is a form of trust. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Mu’minoon (23), Verse 8: 

‘And those people who are responsible in the execution of all matters entrusted to them and promised by them.’ 

You can tell your child, ‘Leaving what is not ours unopened is a way of showing Allah that He can trust us with even bigger things.’ 

Permission Protects Eyes and Hearts 

The teachings of our Prophet ﷺ highlight that seeking permission is not just a formality; it is a form of protection for everyone involved. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6241, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Seeking permission has been enjoined so that the eye may not fall on what it is unlawful to see.’ 

You can explain, ‘When you wait and ask for permission before opening something, you are protecting that person’s dignity and your own heart.’ 

You can conclude with a gentle family reflection: ‘What trust did I keep today? Where did I pause before acting?’ In this way, your child learns that privacy is a sacred boundary and that Allah loves the one who chooses restraint and honesty, even when a small secret could have easily been hidden.