< All Topics
Print

What do I say when I have broken a promise or disappointed my child emotionally?

Parenting Perspective

Honesty and humility are required when a parent betrays a promise or emotionally disappoints a child. Start by simply admitting the impact. Do not minimise their emotions or place the blame on external factors. Instead of undermining trust, it is strengthened when a youngster witnesses a parent accept full responsibility for their error. Offering an apology improves your child’s sense of security in the connection rather than diminishing your authority. Confidence will be gradually restored via persistent attempts to follow through in the future. Your readiness to make repairs with honesty and compassion is more important than being perfect.

Spiritual Insight

Seeking forgiveness is core to Islamic character. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Al Zumar (39), Verse 53: ‘O my servants, those of you who have transgressed against yourselves (by committing sin); do not lose hope in the mercy of Allah (Almighty)…’ It is recorded in Sunan Abu Dawud, Hadith 4895, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: Allah Almighty has revealed to me that you must be humble…’ Expressing regret to your child is a humble gesture. When done with sincerity, it mirrors the prophetic road of repentance and heart-rebuilding. We tenderly turn to our children, teaching them that love is strengthened by truth and kindness rather than diminished by imperfection, just as we turn to Allah Almighty after making mistakes.

Table of Contents

How can we help?